Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are crucial for saving lives, preventing injuries, and reducing property damage by detecting fires early and alerting residents. The likelihood of dying in a fire is twice as high in homes without smoke alarms compared to those equipped with functioning ones.

Operation Safe Home is a collaborative initiative between the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire and Kidde Fire Safety Products, aimed at enhancing fire safety across the state of Georgia. This program aims to make smoke alarms more affordable for fire departments throughout Georgia, enabling them to offer this essential safety measure to their communities. The primary goal of Operation Safe Home is to provide discounted smoke alarms to fire departments throughout Georgia.

 

How to Place Your Order: 

(THIS PROGRAM IS ONLY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY AND PARTNERS)

  1. Download this pdf file. Choose the items you wish to order
  2. Fill out the provided form.
  3. Download this pdf file. Process your payment.

 

Learning the Different Types of Smoke Alarms

The two primary types of smoke alarms are photoelectric and ionization alarms.

The key difference between these types lies in the sensor used for smoke detection. Ionization smoke alarms are typically more responsive to flaming fires (think of a fire with visible flames), while photoelectric smoke alarms are generally better at detecting smoldering fires (like those from a cigarette). Let’s explore the various types of smoke alarms further.

Other types include:

  • Combination Alarms: These incorporate both an ionization sensor and a photoelectric sensor, triggering the alarm when either detects smoke.
  • Intelligent or Multicriteria Alarms: These utilize multiple sensors, including photoelectric, ionization, and heat sensors, along with an algorithm to identify a fire.
  • Voice Smoke Alarms: Some smoke alarms emit a temporal 3 pattern (three loud beeps in succession—beep, beep, beep) along with a voice announcement indicating the location of the smoke detection or any issues with the alarm itself.
  • Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: These alarms are equipped with sensors for both smoke and carbon monoxide (CO). They often resemble standard smoke alarms and are typically installed on the ceiling or high on the wall.

Importance of Regular Testing

Regular testing of smoke alarms is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones. Smoke alarms can provide an early warning in the event of a fire, allowing you and your family to evacuate safely. It is essential to make sure they are working correctly at all times.

Recommended Testing Frequency

  1. Monthly Testing:
    • It's recommended to test your smoke alarms at least once a month. This ensures that the battery and alarm are functioning properly.
  2. Battery Replacement:
    • Replace the batteries at least once a year, or immediately if the alarm chirps, indicating the battery is low, or per manufactures directions.
  3. Full Alarm Replacement:
    • Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years, as the sensors can become less effective over time. (The age of the alarm can be identified by the manufacturing date located on its back.

How to Test Your Smoke Alarms

  1. Locate the Test Button:
    • Most smoke alarms have a test button on the front or side of the unit.
  2. Press and Hold:
    • Press and hold the test button. The alarm should sound a loud siren while the button is pressed.
  3. Listen for the Siren:
    • If the alarm sounds, it is functioning correctly. If it does not, replace the batteries and test again. If it still does not sound, replace the unit.