SMOKE ALARMS

Every year in the United States, about 3,000 people lose their lives in residential fires. In a fire smoke and deadly gases tend to spread farther and faster than heat. That is one reason why most fire victims die from inhalation of smoke and toxic gases, than the result of burns.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home. Many factors influence where they should be placed and how many your should have. In general you should place alarms in the center of a ceiling, if you place them on a wall they should be 6 to 12 inches below the ceiling. Smoke alarms should be installed and maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke alarms are critical for the early detection of a fire in your home and could mean the difference between life and death.

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

Every year in the United States carbon monoxide claims 400 lives and sends another 20,000 people to emergency rooms for treatment.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste, or smell, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. Lower levels of exposure cause mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. CO alarms measure levels of CO over time and are designed to sound off before an average healthy adult experiences symptoms.

CO alarms should be place near sleeping quarters, family rooms and garages. CO alarms should be installed and maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions.

For more information go to http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/

Lt. DeLynne Raines

Fire Prevention Officer