Smoke detectors are small devices that can help prevent fire-related injuries and deaths by detecting smoke early and alerting others to the fire before it gets out of hand. Choosing the right kind of smoke detector, however, can be confusing, especially if you’ve never had to use one before. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about choosing and using smoke detectors in your home to get the most out of them and keep your family safe from harm when something goes wrong.
- LOOK AT THE LABEL.
Did you know most smoke detectors must come with a label with information on what kind of smoke detector it is? Looking at the detector’s bottom, you will see two codes. The first code (sometimes called “company identifier”) should be a three-character code that tells you which company made your detector. If the code says “MSD,” for example, this means the smoke detector is made by Kidde. The second code is a series of numbers that shows you exactly which model (for example, the 40204) this device is. You are legally required to purchase a smoke detector with a label on it if the code on your detector does not have enough information to tell you what kind of alarm it should be.
- DETERMINE THE POWER SOURCE.
The most common type of smoke detectors in the United States is battery-operated. These alarms can be plugged into a wall outlet and typically use a 9-volt battery. The batteries are either rechargeable or non-rechargeable (also known as primary or non-rechargeable batteries), depending on whether the smoke detector comes with an additional battery pack. Some alarm systems use mains power (220 volts), and the third type of alarm system uses inverters instead of batteries.
- GET A SENSE OF SENSORS.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke detectors that are plugged between floors of a house must have doors in each room. This ensures that you will be alerted if smoke gets in a particular room. If there is a door between your bedroom and your bathroom or kitchen, the door needs to be equipped with a working smoke detector. Smoke detectors should be placed well away from ceilings and high-traffic areas such as hallways and bedrooms.
- LOCATION IS PARAMOUNT.
If you think your smoke detector is going to be a heavy item in your house, choose one with a battery compartment and a short cable. If you are keen on low-profile options, choose an outlet-type smoke detector that offers a long cable. If you need both types, check to see which devices have fewer wires (the longer the cable, the less wires needed). The length of the wire affects the amount of space needed between the smoke detector and other appliances and fire hazards.
- CONNECT THEM.
Your smoke detectors can be connected in a series, parallel or on a switch. The first option means that all you need to do is press one button to sound all the alarms at once. In the second option, any alarm would sound only if another alarm in the same circuit sounds first. When you connect them on a switch, every time you turn on an appliance or device that creates heat and smoke (such as cooking with oil), your alarms will come on automatically before your house gets too smoky.
- CHECK FOR ADDED FEATURES.
Smoke detectors come with a variety of features, such as smoke-emitting capability and alarms that can call for help. Make sure you know which features you need to buy for your home if these features are necessary for the devices to do their job properly. They may not be extra costs, but they can be beneficial in preventing injuries from fires.
- CHOOSE AN ALARM SYSTEM DESIGN.
Smoke detectors come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and color. They are also attached to the ceiling or on the wall, where they can be accessed easily. Depending on your preferences, consider getting an alarm system with a wall-mounting bracket that allows a device to hang freely on the wall rather than being screwed into it. Alarm systems with battery backup can be placed either on a table or mounted to the wall.
Smoke detectors can help keep you and your family safe from fires, especially if the right precautions are taken. Before using any type of smoke detector, read the instructions on its manual to know more about its features and how it should be used.