What are Smoke Alarms?
They are devices that detect particles of smoke and sound a warning to their presence.  They give precious few minutes to escape from a building in the event of a fire.  

Parents should be aware that studies have shown young children may sleep through the sound of a smoke alarm.  The possibility that a child does not hear the alarm should be incorporated into your fire escape plan.  Parents should hold a fire drill in the night to assess their childs response to the alarm.

There are two types of smoke alarm, these are optical smoke alarms and ionising smoke alarms.

Ionising smoke alarms are the cheapest alarm, and cost around £5.  They are sensitive to small particles of smoke which are produced from flaming fires such as chip pan fires.  They will detect this type of fire, before the smoke gets too thick.  They are marginally less sensitive to slow burning fires such as upholstery.

Optical alarms are more expensive, and are more sensitive to large particles of smoke, which are produced from slow burning fires such as foam upholstery and PVC wiring.  Optical alarms are marginally less sensitive to flaming fires.  

Both alarms should carry the British Standard Kitemark number BS5446 Part 1.

Smoke alarms can be powered by battery, electricity or electricity with a battery backup - the latter ideally being the best, though a battery alarm will provide a minimum protection.

Where can I Buy a smoke alarm?

Smoke alarms cost around £5 and can be purchased from many DIY stores, electrical stores etc.   THEY DO SAVE LIVES.

We can provide them FREE OF CHARGE if you live in Herefordshire & Worcestershire and request a home fire safety check - Click the HFSC link in the navigation bar

How many should I buy and where should I put them?

You should have at least 1 smoke alarm on each floor of your home, usually located within your escape route (eg, on each landing). As an ideal, you should consider a smoke alarm in every room (except bathroom, kitchen and garage.)  If you live in a bungalow, your alarm should be located between the living and sleeping areas.

When installing smoke alarms, you must ensure that they can be heard all around the home, and that they are located away from lighting and at least 30cm from walls.  They should be fitted on the ceiling and not on walls.

Some smoke alarms can be linked together.  This means that whenever one smoke alarm is activated, they all activate, warning everyone in the building of a fire.  This is particularly important in larger buildings.

How do I maintain my smoke alarm?

Smoke alarms should be tested at least once a month, by pressing the test button.  They should also be tested periodically using a smoke source.  You should vacuum the chamber and clean the slots in the casing periodically. (Switching off electricity supplied alarms first)  The battery should be replaced once a year.

If the alarm is activated frequently due to cooking fumes or steam, DO NOT remove the battery - relocate the alarm.

Should the alarm start to 'chirp' it is time to change the battery.

What if my alarm gives a false alarm?

Most alarms have a 'Hush' button.  If your smoke alarm is activated by cooking fumes or steam, press this button to silence the alarm.  The alarm will then 'chirp' for around 10 minutes, this is normal, the alarm will reset automatically and the 'chirps' will stop.

If the alarm is activated frequently, it is likely that the alarm is in the wrong place, relocate the alarm where it will not be affected by fumes or steam, NEVER remove the battery.