(associated with fast flaming fires) sooner than photoelectric alarms.
Photoelectric sensing alarms may detect visible fire particles (associ-
ated with slow smoldering fires) sooner than ionization alarms. Home
fires develop in different ways and are often unpredictable. For
maximum protection, Kidde recommends that both Ionization and
Photoelectric alarms be installed.
• A battery powered alarm must have a battery of the specified type,
in good condition and installed properly.
• AC powered alarms (without battery backup) will not operate if the
AC power has been cut off, such as by an electrical fire or an open
fuse.
• Smoke alarms must be tested regularly to make sure the batteries
and the alarm circuits are in good operating condition.
• Smoke alarms cannot provide an alarm if smoke does not reach
the alarm. Therefore, smoke alarms may not sense fires starting in
chimneys, walls, on roofs, on the other side of a closed door or on a
different floor.
• If the alarm is located outside the sleeping room or on a different
floor, it may not wake up a sound sleeper.
• The use of alcohol or drugs may also impair one’s ability to hear the
smoke alarm. For maximum protection, a smoke alarm should be
installed in each sleeping area on every level of a home.
• Although smoke alarms can help save lives by providing an early
warning of a fire, they are not a substitute for an insurance policy.
Home owners and renters should have adequate insurance to protect
their lives and property.
8. GOOD SAFETY HABITS
DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at least two
(2) escape routes from each room. Second story windows may need
a rope or chain ladder.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing every-
one what to do in case of fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where you all can meet if a
fire occurs.
• Familiarize everyone with the sound of the smoke alarm and train
them to leave your home when they hear it
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months, including fire drills at
night. Ensure that small children hear the alarm and wake when it
sounds. They must wake up in order to execute the escape plan.
Practice allows all occupants to test your plan before an emergency.
You may not be able to reach your children. It is important they
know what to do.
• Install and maintain fire extinguishers on every level of the home
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