Everything Louisville Homeowners Should Know About Smoke Detectors

Working smoke detectors are a critical part of home fire safety. In fact, a properly functioning smoke alarm can mean the difference between life and death, alerting you to smoke or fire even while you sleep. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms sounded in more than half (54%) of home fires reported to U.S. fire departments from 2014–2018.

The importance of checking them regularly

The age of your smoke detector matters. Always check the manufacture date on your alarm. To do this, remove the detector from the ceiling and look at the back. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. If your alarm is less than 10 years old, simply put it back in place.

Changing batteries

The NFPA recommends changing your smoke detector batteries every six months. A helpful reminder is to do this when you change your clocks for Daylight Saving Time. Your smoke detector will chirp once every minute when the battery needs replacing.

Where to Place Your Smoke Detectors in Louisville Homes

For maximum safety, install smoke detectors in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Larger homes will likely need more detectors. For the best protection, ensure all alarms are interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

Tips on Preventing/Responding to Fire

• Close doors to slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Test your smoke detector at least once a month by pressing the test button.
• If the alarm sounds, exit the home immediately and stay outside.
• Call the fire department and do not re-enter until it’s declared safe.

For more information about smoke alarms, visit usfa.fema.gov and nfpa.org.

Protect Your Louisville Home and Family with Working Smoke Detectors

Regularly checking, maintaining, and replacing your smoke alarms can make all the difference in a fire emergency. Ensure your home is fully equipped and safe, Laswell Electric Company can help with installation, maintenance, or replacement of smoke detectors.

Call now: (502) 373-4538