The Effects of Not Having a Smoke Detector

Major Fire Damage

• Homes without the protection of smoke detectors can suffer major damage in the event of a fire. Families have the potential to lose their homes, their possessions and their lives without the round-the-clock monitoring a smoke detector can provide. Some detectors are designed to notify emergency personnel to respond to the location, allowing firefighters to minimize damage and effect rescue in the shortest possible period of time.

Reduced Escape Time

• Those without a smoke detector may have no warning and no lead time for escape in the event of a fire. Early warning saves lives. The lack of detectors accounts for about two-thirds of all residential fire deaths, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The alarm that a smoke detector raises can wake sleeping family members to alert them of the presence of smoke, fire and the poisonous gases that accompany them. The more time a family has to respond a fire, the greater their chance of escape, as smoke can obscure exit paths, and fire can block escape routes. An early escape means less exposure to the particulate matter and potentially toxic materials in the air and lower the chance of ongoing health problems due to smoke inhalation.

Smoke Damage

• Without a working smoke detector, your home could suffer extensive smoke damage. Even in a small fire, smoke can damage furnishings, belongings and the home itself, penetrating the walls and floors. Textiles in particular hold soot and the odor of smoke, but even items such as metal cookware can be affected. Restoration and replacement of smoke-damaged items is costly and time-consuming and may require the services of a fire restoration professional.

Loss of Savings

• According to MSN.com's Money Central, smoke detectors can bring homeowners up to a 5 percent discount on home insurance, with discounts of as much as 20 percent for those with home security systems. Homeowners should check with their insurance agents regarding the equipment that's required and the extent of discounts available.