Smoke detectors save lives by providing an early warning in case of a fire. If a fire breaks out when you’re sleeping, the alarm is designed to alert you with enough time to escape. Here are a few of the best places to install smoke detectors in your home. Proper installation will help you keep your family safe from house fires.
Where to Install Smoke Detectors for Best Results
Anytime you are renovating your home, reassess your fire safety plan. Take into account safety features, exits, and the placement of smoke detectors when you’re making upgrades.
On the Ceiling
Install a smoke detector on each level of your home. Ideally, you would install an interconnected system. When one alarm sounds, all devices in the home alert everyone of danger. Mount the devices overhead, on the ceiling. If the ceiling is not an option, install them on the wall between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling. The devices should be kept several feet away from ceiling fans, HVAC vents, windows, and doors. Airflow can delay the functioning of a smoke detector.
Install Smoke Detector in Places You Sleep
When family members are relaxing in their bedrooms, they’re less likely to be aware of what’s going on in the rest of the home. If you’re sleeping with the bedroom door closed, you’ll have no indication of a fire until it has spread through the home without an alarm. Install smoke detectors in each bedroom and in areas where family members enjoy naps. If your child often falls asleep on the couch downstairs or if your partner likes to nap in the recliner by the TV, make sure there are working smoke detectors in these areas.
Laundry Room
The clothes dryer is a common cause of house fires. This occurs when the lint filter becomes clogged and the dryer overheats. The lint gathered from clothing is extremely flammable. Oftentimes, the laundry room is away from the rest of the home. Your family may not be immediately aware of a fire that breaks out in this space. Make sure you have a functioning smoke detector installed in your laundry room.
Cooking Areas are Places to Install Smoke Detectors
Cooking is one of the most common causes of house fires. A grease fire on the stovetop or bread that was left too long in the toaster oven can ignite. Install your kitchen smoke detector 10 to 12 feet away from any cooking appliances. This distance will help to prevent false alarms while still alerting you to danger in the kitchen.
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