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Smoke
Alarms |
The Staunton Fire Protection District, along
with the United States Fire Administration (USFA) would like
to provide a few tips on smoke detectors:
The very first, and most important is that
a working smoke detector can save your life and your families
in the event of a fire in the home. Smoke alarms provide an
early warning in the event that a fire has started in the
home.
What types of smoke detectors
are available for home use?
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Ionization:
Sound more quickly when a flaming, fast moving fire occurs
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Photoelectric: Quicker
at sensing smoldering, smoky fires
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Dual Sensor:
Combination Ionization and Photoelctric smoke detectors
In addition to the ones listed above there
are detectors for:
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People with hearing disabilites that
have flashing strobe lights
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Voice recordable so children may not
be as frightened and more easlt awoken by hearing a familiar
voice
Where is the proper place
in the home to install a smoke detector?
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On every level of the home, including
in the basement
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Since many fatal fires start late at
night, install a smoke detector both inside and outside
the sleeping areas
How do I install my smoke
detector?
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Hard wired:
This type is wired directly into the home electrical system
and should be install by a qulaifed electrican. Some of
these models have a battery back-up, check your model
and follow manufactor recommendations
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Battery powered:
Often installed by with screws, some are self-adhesive.
The batteries need to be changed at least every 6 months.
A good rule of thumb is when you change your clocks, change
your smoke detector batteries
Do I ever have to buy a
new smoke detector?
Yes, with either the hard wired or battery
powered models, they should be replaced every 8-10 years or
after they have been activated in a fire or overlly smoke
environment. It is a good idea to write the purchase on the
smoke detector
I live in a rental property,
who is responsible for the smoke detectors?
Check with local laws and regulations, but
generally the landlord is responsible for insuring the renters
have properly installed and working smoke detectors
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