When we think of fire alarms, we imagine bells, sirens and horns that are impossible to ignore. Our first conscious exposure to fire alarms was probably in school. Drills prepared us for the actions we needed to take should the alarm sound. However, for most of us, it wasn't until we grew up and became home owners ourselves that we had to give serious consideration to fire alarm systems.
When deciding what to buy, where and how to install it, gather several pieces of information, first. Know the square footage of your home. Make a drawing of each floor noting the location of each bedroom, exit and danger zones. Danger zones would include your kitchen, fireplaces, furnace rooms, and anywhere a gas line exists. Consider installing sprinklers or at least fire extinguishers near the "hot spots." Smoke detectors should be installed outside each bedroom door.
There are so many good choices around fire alarms these days. One of the decisions you'll face is to go wireless or stick with a traditional wired system. Sometimes we believe that wired systems are automatically more reliable because we can see the wires. The technology is so advanced today, that good wireless fire alarm systems can be every bit as dependable as the traditional wired ones. If you decide on a wired system, seriously consider having it professionally installed.
Whether you build your home with a hard wired fire alarms and sprinklers or just install smoke detectors, be sure to check municipal building codes and landlord-tenant regulations before choosing your system. Some municipalities require that smoke detectors be installed just outside each bedroom door. Others have specific requirements about tamper-resistant features or longevity of operation. Failure to comply with these regulations could mean citations and fines.
The object of a fire alarm is to get everyone out of a building quickly. The first step in a properly functioning system is the smoke detector. Although it can be annoying when smoke detectors go off, seemingly unprovoked, it is vital that you don't resort to simply pulling the battery out when it happens. If uncooperative housemates or family members make it difficult to prevent this, be vigilant about testing your fire alarm system, including your smoke detectors, monthly.
Monthly smoke detector testing only takes a few minutes. First, press the battery test button on each detector. Change the battery if it fails the test. Once you have a good battery installed, check whether the fire alarm activates properly by holding a lighted candle under the detector, about six inches away. If the alarm doesn't sound, blow the candle out and see if the smoke itself activates the alarm. If not, replace it.
Your awareness of fire safety shouldn't end in your home. Wherever you work and wherever you vacation, notice the fire safety mechanisms in place. Where are the fire alarm pulls, exits and fire extinguishers? Do you know which way to turn out your office or hotel room door if you find the hallways smoke-filled? Being aware of fire and smoke danger no matter where you are is your best defense.
James Collins is an expert in fire alarm systems. With over twenty years experience in fire alarm systems his advice is well sought after. If you would like more info regarding fire alarm systems please visit http://www.adt.co.uk
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