When you change your clocks back one hour this weekend, please take time to check on the condition of your smoke detectors as well. Both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors have been on the market since the 1970s. Both have saved thousands of lives. However, we now know that photoelectric detectors provide a much faster alert in a slow-burning, smoldering fire. Most homes in the U.S. currently have ionization detectors: they are so sensitive to small particles that they may give off nuisance alarms for smoke or steam. Yet they do not respond quickly in a smoldering type of fire that gives off large smoke particles.
. If your detectors are 10 years old or more, replace them!
. If you do not have at least one PHOTOELECTRIC detector on each floor of the home, plan to get them installed before the end of the year. Call your preferred hardware or general merchandise store before shopping to make sure they have PHOTOELECTRIC smoke detectors in stock. They should cost between $12 and $18.
. If you have 9-volt alkaline batteries in your detectors, this is the weekend to put in fresh batteries. If you have long-lasting lithium batteries, check to make sure they are still working well.
. If you have hardwired smoke detectors, the 10-year limit and the need for photoelectric protection still applies.
. You can also purchase dual sensor, ionization and photoelectric, battery-operated smoke detectors for about $25. So far, there are no combination hardwired smoke detectors on the market.
On behalf of Spokane Fire Department, thank you for taking time to make sure your family is protected with working smoke detectors and a good fire escape plan. As we move into the winter months, we know there will be an increase in home fires. Working smoke detectors save lives. For additional information, call 625-7000.
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