18
The Limitations of Smoke Alarms
• Smoke alarms must be tested regularly to ensure that the batteries and alarm circuit are
in good operating condition.
• Smoke alarms cannot provide an alarm if smoke does not reach the alarm. Therefore,
sound sleeper. A smoke alarm in the bedroom, therefore, is recommended.
the use of this product does not substitute for basic prevention and total protection.
are not a substitute for an insurance policy.
• This smoke alarm alone will not alert the hearing impaired. Use special purpose smoke
alarm with lights or vibrating devices, for those hard of hearing.
of the need to escape, followed by appropriate egress actions by occupants. Fire
warning systems for dwelling units are capable of protecting about half of the
young, or physically, mentally impaired that they cannot escape even when warned
early that escape should be possible. For these people, other strategies such as
protection-in-place or assisted escape or rescue are necessary.
