Fire Alarms

1. Created by Curt Harrell & Jesse Kuzy for Fire Alarms

2. Why are Fire Alarms Important? • If the fire is small enough to be extinguished with a hand-held fire extinguisher, a good alarm can let you know there is a fire before it grows to a dangerous size. http://fire.georgetown.org/images/fire/frontpage.mainpic/House-Fire.jpg

3. Why are Fire Alarms Important? • If a fire starts at night, an alarm can wake occupants and let them know they need to evacuate. • When evacuating, every second counts. Having the right alarm gives you crucial time to evacuate safely.

4. Choosing a Fire Alarm • Alarms should carry the label of an independent testing lab. • Alarms that run on batteries or household currents are both acceptable. http://images.clipartof.com/small/20310-Clipart-Illustration-Of-An-Off-White-Smoke-And -Fire-Alarm-With-A-Red-9-Volt-Battery-Hanging-Down-In-Need-Of-A-Replacement.jpg

5. Sensor Technologies • Ionization smoke alarms are more effective at detecting fast-flaming fires such as kitchen or paper fires, which spread rapidly. http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/Fires%201.1.11.0%20Accordion%201%20of%208.JPG

6. Sensor Technologies • Photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective at detecting slow-smoldering fires which smoke before flaming, such as those caused by dropped cigarettes or exposed wiring. • Combination units are available and provide early warning for both types of fires. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/images/photo_unit.jpg

7. Where to Install Alarms • On every level of the home, including in the basement and in or near every sleeping area. Everyone should be able to hear alarms. • Don’t put an alarm near a door, window or air register; moving air can blow smoke away from the sensor. http://www.fire.org.nz/Fire-Safety/Safety-Devices/PublishingImages/smoke-alarm-installation-3.jpg

8. Where to Install Alarms • Mount alarms high on a wall or on the ceiling, staying at least 4 inches from the corner. • Keep alarms at least ten feet from stoves and showers to avoid false alarms. http://www.edisonnj.org/vertical/Sites/%7B1167D1D0-6B56-4271-A5B8-573607E15E89%7D/uploads/%7BF7493944-B3B0-4C2C-84EB-8B0E9700A9FA%7D.GIF

9. How to Install Alarms • Follow manufacturer’s instructions • Use a drill and screwdriver. • Plug-in alarms must have restraining devices so they are not unplugged by mistake. https://www.safekidscanada.ca/Images/26559-FireAlarmBattery.jpg

10. How to Install Alarms • Hard-wire alarms need to be installed by a qualified technician. • Never connect a smoke alarm to a circuit that can be turned off from a wall switch. http://www.lerc.org/userfiles/image/lerc_images/tech2.jpg

11. Alarm Maintenance • Test smoke alarms once month by pressing the test button. • Install new batteries at least once a year. • Clean smoke alarms using a vacuum without removing the alarm’s cover. • Replace smoke alarms every ten years. http://www.usfa.fema.gov/media/visuals/photos/smokealarms/install_smoke_alarm/InstallAlarmC1_1.jpg

12. Alarms for the Hearing-Impaired • Smoke alarms for the hearing-impaired have a built-in strobe light. The alarm has both an audible and visible signal and can be mounted in ceilings and walls. http://www.serviceandinclusion.org/ttt/sites/serviceandinclusion.org.ttt/files/word/Picture13.jpg

13. Summary • What are the types of fire alarms? • Ionization • Photoelectric • What is alarm maintenance? • Cleaning and testing fire alarms • Replacing batteries and fire alarms • What are recommended practices for installing fire alarms and good locations to install them? • Discuss