Created by Curt Harrell

& Jesse Kuzy

for

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summary What are the types of fire alarms?

IonizationPhotoelectric

What is alarm maintenance?Cleaning and testing fire alarmsReplacing batteries and fire alarms

What are recommended practices for installing fire alarms and good locations to install them?Discuss