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1. Why are smoke detectors important?

Most fire fatalities occur between 2 am and 6 am, when most people are sleeping. Smoke from a residential fire can quickly kill the occupants. A smoke detector can save those lives.

2. My smoke detector is “chirping”. What should I do?

Generally, a chirping sound means that the battery in your detector needs to be changed. If you would like assistance with a smoke or carbon monoxide detector, please give us a call at 832-595-3600. We’ll be glad to help if we can.

3. Is one smoke detector enough?

Generally, several detectors are required to provide full protection. Smoke detectors should be installed on every living level of the home, inside each bedroom, and in the main corridor outside each bedroom area.

4. Where should I install smoke detectors?

Install a minimum of two detectors even in single level homes. Install a smoke detector in each bedroom as well as the main corridor outside of the bedroom area. Install a smoke detector above stairwells.

5. Are there other considerations on my smoke detector's placement?

Mount smoke detectors in the middle of the ceiling, if possible. If not, mount detectors on the wall, at least three feet from a corner and 4 to 6 inches from the ceiling. Keep detectors away from fans or air ducts.

Avoid placing the detector too close to kitchen stoves and bathroom showers. Mount basement detectors at the bottom of the basement stairwell.

6. What type of smoke detectors are there?

There are two basic types of smoke detectors: ionization and photo-electric. Both are effective at detecting fire, yet each has a unique detecting system. Each type of detector comes as AC-operated smoke detectors or battery- powered smoke detectors. Some AC detectors come with a battery back-up system.

7. How do I maintain my smoke detectors?

Maintenance tips include:

• Clean the detectors at least once a year.
• Never remove the battery unless you are changing batteries.
• Replace the battery in each smoke detector twice a year - use the slogan - “change your clock-change your battery” as a reminder.
• Test your detectors once a week.

8. What should I do if I hear a smoke detector’s alarm sound?

If you hear a smoke detector alarm:

1. Never ignore the sound
2. Have an escape plan
3. Feel if the door is hot
4. Crawl on the floor
5. Meet at a pre-arranged spot outside the home
6. Call the fire department from a neighbor’s home
7. Never go back inside a burning building