A Reminder from the Downey Fire Department:
          Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

The majority of fatal fires happen at night when people are asleep. Contrary to popular belief, the smell of smoke may not wake a sleeping person. The poisonous gases and smoke produced by a fire can numb the senses and put you into a deeper sleep. Inexpensive household smoke detectors sound an alarm, alerting you to a fire. By giving you time to escape, smoke detectors cut your risk of dying in a home fire nearly in half. Smoke detectors save so many lives that most states have laws requiring them in private homes.

Choosing a Smoke Detector

Be sure that the smoke detectors you buy carry the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Several types are available. Some run on batteries; others run on household current. Some detect smoke using "ionization" sensor; others use a "photoelectric" detection system. All approved smoke detectors, regardless of type, will offer adequate protection provided they are installed and maintained properly.

How Many Should I Have In My House?

Every home should have a smoke detector outside each sleeping area and one on every level of the home, including the basement. NFPA also recommends that additional smoke detector be installed in living rooms, dens or family rooms, dining rooms, utility rooms and hallways.

Where Do I Install Smoke Detectors

Because smoke rises, mount detectors high on a wall or on the ceiling. Wall mounted units should be mounted so that the top of the detector is 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling. A ceiling mounted detector should be attached at least 4 inches from the nearest wall. Do not install smoke detectors too near a window, door, or forced air-register where drafts could interfere with the detectors operation. Carefully follow the manufacturers instructions when installing your smoke detector.

How Do I Maintain My Smoke Detector

To insure that your smoke detector will operate properly when needed, regular maintenance is a "must". Here are a few suggestions to keep your detector in proper working condition.