Are Your Smoke Detectors Up to Code and Protecting Your Home?
October’s better-known holiday at the end of the month may be sweet, but from October 4-10 the focus is on Fire Prevention Week and its goal is to make sure your home is ready for the unexpected.
One of the most important things you can do to protect your home is to make sure your smoke detectors are working properly, and your home complies with local codes. Ohio building codes require both photoelectric and ionization technology smoke alarms to be installed on each level within each home, and that the alarm located outside of sleeping areas must include photoelectric technology. A photoelectric smoke alarm uses a light source in a light-sensitive sensor. When smoke agitates and scatters the light, it triggers the alarm. Experts say these photoelectric alarms are better at detecting smoldering fires and not just flaming fires.
According to a law change in 2019, apartments, schools, hotels dorms, and other multifamily dwellings must have carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms on every level and in sleeping areas. But it’s critical that every home have carbon monoxide detectors on each floor.
Carbon monoxide is often called the silent killer because its odorless, colorless gas can be deadly without proper ventilation. It is best to install a system that interconnects all CO alarms throughout the home so they all sound when one is triggered. Regular maintenance of your home’s HVAC system and duct sealing are proactive steps to prevent CO leaks.
Here’s what you can do to make sure your smoke detectors are operating correctly:
- Test your smoke detectors’ batteries & Replace them yearly
- Dust and vacuum your alarms
- Replace detectors every ten years.
- Mount smoke detectors high on ceilings or walls
- Don’t decorate or paint your smoke detectors as it can interfere with its performance
Click here for more information on Fire Prevention Week!
Don’t take chances with your fire safety devices, have them professionally installed and inspected by the experts at APOLLO HOME. Call today to schedule your service.