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365 Alive - Think Safety

Don’t drown in toxic smoke. Test your smoke alarm today!

Fire Kills Toxic Smoke

You’re listening to the sound that 1 in 4 smoke alarms make!

In a house fire, you might think that the smoke would wake you and give you and your family time to escape. But after just two or three breaths of toxic smoke, you’re unconscious. Your lungs fill up and you can’t breathe. Just like drowning.

A smoke alarm is the easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you precious time to escape.

How many smoke alarms do you need?

  • The more alarms you have around your home, the safer you will be.
  • If you live on one level, fit the alarm in the hallway between the living and sleeping areas.
  • If your home has more than one level, fit one alarm at the bottom of the staircase and further alarms on each landing.

 Where to fit some alarms:

  • Always put smoke alarms where you will be able to hear them throughout the home, particularly when you're asleep or when doors are closed.
  • Ideal places are at the top of staircases, on stair landings, and between living and sleeping areas.
  • Fit alarms on the ceiling, as near as possible to the centre of the room, hallway or landing. The alarm should be at least 30cm (12 inches) away from any wall or light.

Don't put a smoke alarm:

  • In the kitchen or bathroom, where it could be accidentally triggered by cooking fumes or steam.
  • In a garage, where it could be triggered by exhaust fumes.
  • On a wall. Smoke rises straight up towards the ceiling and will set the alarm off more quickly if the device is fixed to the ceiling - giving you more time to escape.

 Maintaining smoke alarms:

  • You must look after your smoke alarms. Every year people are killed in fires because their alarms failed to work because of flat or missing batteries.
  • Once a week test the battery by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds. If the alarm ever starts to 'beep' regularly, replace the battery as soon as possible.
  • Once a year change the battery (unless it is a 10-year alarm).
  • Twice a year open the case and gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensor. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.
  • After 10 years it's best to replace your smoke alarm with a whole new unit.

For more information about smoke alarms, fire safety or to request a free home fire safety assessment free phone our Community Safety number 08000 325 999.

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