According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 374,000 homes in the United States catch fire each year.
Our team at Mr. Electric of Austin wants to offer some tips on making sure your smoke detector is up to code for the ultimate protection.
Is Your Home’s Smoke Alarm Working?
Since every year smoke alarms save thousands of lives, it is vital that you protect your home with smoke detectors.
However, there are some rules you need to follow when it comes to using smoke detectors in your home:
First, no matter what or when you are cooking, never turn your smoke alarm off when cooking. Many house fires start in the kitchen. And it’s entirely too easy to forget to turn back on the smoke detector once you are done cooking in the kitchen.
Second, when a smoke alarm goes off, you need to exit your home immediately. That’s why practicing a fire escape plan every six months in your household is so important.
When a fire does occur, everyone will know exactly what they are suppose to do. Once out, go to a neighbor’s house or somewhere that is safe to call 911—and stay there. Do not go back in for personal belongings.
Remember, materials can be replaced. You and your loved ones cannot. If you have a second floor or higher, make sure to keep a folding ladder close by so that loved ones upstairs can escape safely, if needed.
Finally, you also want to make sure you clean dust from the smoke alarms and push the test button every six months. In addition, make sure you change the batteries every time you change the clocks for daylight saving time.
If it has been over 10 years since you replaced your smoke detectors, now is the time to replace them.
Are you worried about the old electrical wiring in your home? Give Mr. Electric of Austin a call to learn how we can help make sure your wiring is up to par with safety guidelines.
