Smoke Detector Facts
- Studies show that more than 60% of deadly U.S. fires occur in homes that do not have working smoke detectors.
- On average, house fire kill 540 children ages 14 and under each year.
- Almost three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with no smoke alarms.
- Only 23% of U.S Families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.
- The risk of dying in a home structure fire is 55% lower in homes with working smoke detectors than homes with no detectors or none that were working at that time.
* Facts were referenced from National Fire Protection Agency, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and Missouri Department of Fire Safety.
Smoke Detector Tips
- Place at least one smoke detector on every level of your home.
- Install them in every bedroom and outside sleeping areas.
- Avoid placing them near kitchens or bathrooms to reduce false alarms.
- Test your smoke detectors every month by pressing the test button.
- Ensure the alarm sounds loud and clear.
- Change batteries at least once a year unless you have a sealed, 10-year battery model.
- Consider doing it when you change your clocks for daylight saving time.
- Dust and debris can interfere with the detector’s operation.
- Use a vacuum or a soft brush to clean the exterior and vents.
- Smoke detectors lose effectiveness over time.
- Check the manufacturer’s label for the production date and replace accordingly.
Request Free Smoke Detectors
Our Smoke Alarm Program is designed to enhance the safety of our community by ensuring that every home has properly functioning smoke alarms. Working in partnership with local residents, businesses, and organizations, our department is committed to preventing fire-related injuries and fatalities by providing vital smoke alarm services.
- Installation and Inspection: We provide free smoke alarm installations and inspections for eligible households, especially those in high-risk areas, seniors, and those with limited resources. Our trained firefighters will visit your home to install new alarms or check the condition of existing alarms, ensuring they are properly placed and functioning.
- Education and Awareness: Along with installations, we offer education on the importance of smoke alarms, proper maintenance, and the role they play in fire safety. Our team helps homeowners understand where to place alarms, how to test them regularly, and the steps to take when alarms sound.
- Battery Replacement: For households with existing smoke alarms, we offer free battery replacement services, ensuring your alarms are always ready in the event of an emergency. We encourage everyone to change batteries annually, especially during daylight saving time, to maintain optimal protection.
Smoke alarms are one of the simplest and most effective ways to save lives. In the event of a fire, smoke alarms provide early warning, allowing occupants time to escape and reducing the risk of serious injury or death. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a fire by 50%.
Our department is committed to making sure every home in our community is as safe as possible. Through our Smoke Alarm Program, we are helping to prevent tragedies, raise awareness about fire safety, and ensure that everyone has the tools they need to stay safe.
If you are interested in receiving free smoke alarm services or would like more information, simply contact our department. We will schedule an appointment for installation, inspection, or battery replacement, and our team will ensure that your home is equipped with the protection it needs.
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