Fire Safe - articles and reviews

Smoke detectors are the 1^st line of defense against fire in our home. It is important to follow some basic rules as are listed below. Read on and add your comments below if you got anything to add.

Tips and advice for Smoke detectors – DOs and DON’Ts

1. Make sure that the smoke detectors are installed high up on the wall or on the ceiling. They should not be place near a window as they won’t be effective in case of fire.
2. Test your smoke detectors once a month – every smoke detector got a test button. I test it around the 1^st of each month. I know that it is a boring task but thousands of people in the US die each year as a result of fire in their home.
3. If you have smoke alarm that operates on batteries – make sure that you change the batteries on a regular basis. Don’t forget to test the smoke detectors as written above…
4. Where to install? The smoke detectors should be installed at each bedroom, hallways, and all the large rooms in the house as kitchen, dining room, and basement. In addition don’t forget the garage as many times we store there many fire hazards like spray paint, solvents etc. If you can’t afford to smoke detectors in all the important room at least install one on every floor of your house (near sleeping areas) including the basement and the garage.
5. I know it is obvious – but I seen it happen – don’t paint your smoke detectors.
6. Install CO detectors at least in each floor of your house including basement and garage.
7. When the alarm go – make sure that there is a fire hazard as times the fire alarms beeps when the batteries are low. If it is real fire call 911 and evacuate your family and yourself as fast as you can. Don’t to try to be a hero to save some of your stuff – this why you have fire insurance.