Importance of a Smoke Alarm in Your House

They Warn You

• According to Ontario Public Fire Safety Council studies conducted in the 1990s, the majority of house fires take place at night, when smoking materials or cooking facilities are left unattended and ignite upholstery, bedding and other fabrics. The most dangerous aspect of these scenarios is that the homeowners will never even know that there is a fire, as they sleep soundly in their beds. This is the most important aspect of smoke detectors: They bring the danger to our attention, regardless of what we are doing. Smoke detectors in the areas of the home that catch fire alert homeowners and families and give them time to evacuate before the smoke and flames engulf the entire structure.

They Warn Others

• Even if you are not at home, smoke detectors can protect your house and your belongings. A sounding smoke detector will attract the attention of passers-by and neighbors, who can act to call the fire department. Many modern home security systems can also link to your smoke detectors, so that if the detectors sound and are not immediately silenced (as they would be for normal cooking smoke or a similar non-emergency situation) the system will contact the fire department. These alerts can save your home and your possessions even if your family is not at risk.

Other Detectors

• Modern smoke detectors often feature other forms of detectors that can protect your home and family. The most popular of these is a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious illness, trouble breathing and even death if left undetected. Combination detectors will sense both smoke from a fire and the poisonous gas to ensure the safety of your family.

Other Steps

• Having smoke detectors is not enough to ensure the protection of your family. You must maintain the detectors, and implement an emergency plan in your home. Clean your detectors and change the batteries at least every six months to ensure proper performance. Read the manufacturer's manual to determine how often you should replace your detector; many last 10 to 15 years. Make sure that everyone in your family, especially children, know what a fire alarm sounds like, and how to evacuate in case of emergency. The home should contain ladders or a proven escape route for those on the second floor, as well as a meeting place that everyone who evacuates the house knows about.