• Smoke alarms must be tested regularly to make sure the batteries and the
alarm circuits are in good operating condition.
• Smoke alarms cannot provide an alarm if smoke does not reach the alarm.
Therefore, smoke alarms may not sense fires starting in chimneys, walls, on
roofs, on the other side of a closed door or on a different floor.
• If the alarm is located outside the bedroom or on a different floor, it may not
wake up a sound sleeper.
• The use of alcohol or drugs may also impair one’s ability to hear the smoke
alarm. For maximum protection, a smoke alarm should be installed in each
sleeping area on every level of a home.
• Although smoke alarms can help save lives by providing an early warning of a
fire, they are not a substitute for an insurance policy. Home owners and
renters should have adequate insurance to protect their lives and property.
8. GOOD SAFETY HABITS
DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE
• Install and maintain fire extinguishers on every level of the home and in the
kitchen, basement and garage. Know how to use a fire extinguisher prior to
an emergency.
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at least two (2)
escape routes from each room. Second story windows may need a rope or
chain ladder.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing everyone what
to do in case of fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where you all can meet if a fire occurs.
• Familiarize everyone with the sound of the smoke alarm and train them to
leave your home when they hear it.
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months, including fire drills at night.
Ensure that small children hear the alarm and wake when it sounds. They
must wake up in order to execute the escape plan. Practice allows all occu-
pants to test your plan before an emergency. You may not be able to reach
your children. It is important they know what to do.
• Current studies have shown smoke alarms may not awaken all sleeping indi-
viduals, and that it is the responsibility of individuals in the household that are
capable of assisting others to provide assistance to those who may not be
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