DID YOU KNOW?
The risk of dying in a residential fire is cut in half when a working smoke alarm is present. [4] These small devices provide a critical early warning that can make the difference between life and death.
KNOW THE RISK
- Over 16,000 people are injured in fires each year in the U.S., and smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death. [1]
- Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames. Fire spreads fast, but it’s the fumes that often overcome victims. [2]
- Fire produces poisonous gases that disorient you and reduce your ability to escape — especially while sleeping. [2]
- A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chance of survival in a house fire, especially when installed and maintained properly. [2]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Install Smoke Detectors in All Key Areas
- Place alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of your home, including the basement. [2]
2. Change Batteries Twice a Year
- Replace batteries every 6 months or whenever you hear a chirp. A good rule of thumb is to check them during daylight saving time changes. [2]
3. Replace Units Every 10 Years
- Even if a smoke alarm still beeps during a test, the internal sensors may degrade over time. Replace the entire unit after 10 years. [2]
4. Test and Inspect Regularly
- Test your alarms monthly and inspect for dust, cobwebs, or damage. A detector that’s blocked or malfunctioning is as dangerous as no detector at all. [3]
SMOKE DETECTOR SAFETY REMINDER
When a fire breaks out, you may have less than 2 minutes to escape. Smoke detectors buy you that time — but only if they work. Keep them powered, placed correctly, and routinely tested to protect everyone in your home or facility.