Smoke Alarms/Detectors:

• Smoke alarms won't prevent fires — but they increase chances of getting out in time
• A working smoke alarm doubles a person's chance of surviving a fire and reduces fatalities by up to 90 percent
  
  • For maximum safety, install smoke alarms in every home, on every level, outside each sleeping area and in every bedroom
  • Install smoke alarm on each floor of your home
  • Learn to recognize the sound of the alarm
  • Make sure smoke alarms are placed near bedrooms
  • Install smoke alarms on ceiling or 6" to 12" below the ceiling on the wall
  • Locate smoke alarms away from air vents and bathrooms
  • Test and vacuum your alarms monthly
  • For help with smoke alarm inspection or installation, call the Fire Marshal at 360 397-2148
  • For increased protection, consider installing a home fire sprinkler system

Batteries

• Replace the batteries twice a year at the same time you change your clocks.
• You should also change the battery when the detector's low battery signal emits the sound, indicating a change is necessary.
• Never put off or delay changing the battery because today could be the only day you need it!

Installation

• For minimum coverage, a smoke detector should be installed on every level of your home, and in every sleeping area.
• For maximum protection, a detector should be installed on every level including basements and finished attics, in each bedroom and in the hall outside of every sleeping area, at the top and bottom of stairways and in rooms that are frequently used.
• A working smoke detector doubles a person's chance of surviving a fire and could reduce fatalities by up to 90 percent.
• The loud alarm of a smoke detector can warn you of a dangerous situation before it's too late.
• Smoke alarms usually cost between $10-$20 dollars and are available in hardware and department stores.

What to Do if the Smoke Detector Goes Off

• When you are awakened by the alarm, make sure other family members are also awake.
• If sleeping and a smoke detector sounds, immediately exit the home.
• Do not stop to get dressed, find the family pet or collect valuables.
• Fire moves very quickly and there are no seconds to spare!

Smoke alarms have a usable life span of ten years and then should to be replaced. Newer models on the market have a convenient "hush" feature and come with 10-year lithium batteries. They are highly recommended because they require less maintenance than the models that require biannual battery replacement. Smoke alarms usually cost between $10-$20 and are available in hardware and department stores. Residents who cannot afford to buy a smoke alarm should call Clark County Fire District 5, the number is 360 397 2100.