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Smoke detector technology has been around
for seventy years, with the first affordable battery-powered units
being mass marketed in the late 1960’s. Today, nearly every
home in America has at least one detector on the premises. Unfortunately,
it is estimated that nearly one-third of all detectors do not work.
For units that are solely powered by batteries, homeowners may not
remember to check to see if the batteries are still working. Problems
like this can be avoided by using smoke detectors that plug into
the house’s electrical sockets.
With greater public awareness of common hazards
in the home, there has been an increase in the availability of
other useful home safety tools. The use of carbon monoxide detectors
alongside smoke alarms is recommended. Carbon monoxide poisoning
accounts for an average of 500 preventable deaths each year, and
sends thousands of others to the hospital for emergency treatment.
This silent killer can strike any home that has a gas water heater
or a blocked chimney. Many people suffer the effects of poisoning
without realizing the cause. Common signs of poisoning include
nausea, headache or other flu-like symptoms. Carbon monoxide detectors
are often combined with smoke detectors in a convenient dual-purpose
device.
Early detection of gas or smoke is vital to reducing
the risk of unnecessary death and property damage. While most
homes do have smoke alarms, they are only good at preventing danger
if they are working. A monitored fire alarm system can increase
the response time of firefighters getting to your home. Take the
time to learn about the many different options and benefits of
having a complete home fire safety plan to better your chances
in an emergency.
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