(NAPSI)-What type of smoke alarm is in your home? Different types of smoke alarms are better at alerting residents to different types of fires.
Ionization smoke alarms are sensitive to small smoke particles in the air, produced by fast-burning fires. Photoelectric smoke alarms use beams of light and sensors to detect larger smoke particles produced by smoldering fires. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends dual-sensor alarms that function as both, for the best overall coverage.
In addition, since a working smoke alarm can save lives, it’s important to test every smoke alarm monthly by pushing the test button. Change the batteries in all of your smoke alarms at least once a year, perhaps when you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time. Replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old.
For further information on smoke alarms or other fire safety topics, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov or write to the United States Fire Administration, Publications Office, 16825 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.
