Importance of Smoke Detectors in Your Home

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month, each year SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes gives away a fire prevention gift pack to a family in need.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 50% of all fatal home fires occur while people are sleeping. Firefighters in the US respond to a fire every 24 seconds. That is why smoke detectors are so essential. For many families smoke alarms are all that stand between their home and escaping a fire. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries

Having smoke detectors placed in various locations around your home allows for fast and effective detection. The siren will warn you day or night, that there is a potential fire, allowing you to quickly check the nature of the problem and hopefully prevent any damage. When placed in the right location, the smoke alarm can also help firefighters quickly locate the fire in the home.

Since smoke rises, smoke detectors are always placed on the ceiling for ideal detection. The most common types of smoke detectors to choose from are photoelectric and ionization. It’s recommended that there are smoke detectors on each floor of your home, including the attic and basement. If doors to rooms are closed often, it is best to have one installed in those rooms.

To ensure that your smoke alarms are working properly it’s important to perform regular testing and cleaning. Test each alarm once every month. Alarms should be vacuumed at least once every six months to remove any dust and or cobweb buildup. If your alarm requires a battery be sure to replace it once a year. Most detectors will have a replace-by date. If it does not, it’s important to replace it once every ten years.

If your home has suffered damage after a fire contact SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We are dedicated to responding as quickly as possible when you need help. A fast response helps lessen the damage, limits the secondary damage, and reduces cost. We have advanced training in restoration techniques, and the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property.