Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

Every level of your home needs a smoke detector. Detectors should also be placed outside every bedroom. Because smoke rises, the best place to install a smoke detector is on the ceiling.

• Make sure you buy a detector that is UL approved
• Test your smoke detector monthly
• Replace the batteries regularly

If you have purchased a smoke detector and need help installing it, the fire department will do it FREE. Call the fire station at 448-2806 for an appointment.

In rental property, the landlord is required by law to install and maintain smoke alarms. Landlords must also provide smoke alarm maintenance information to the occupant of each unit.

It is against the law for anyone to disable a smoke alarm. This applies equally to homeowners, landlords, and tenants.

Types of Smoke Detectors

Ionization

The ionization alarm is the most common type of smoke alarm. It uses a small amount of radioactive material to make the air within a sensing chamber conduct electricity. When smoke particles enter the sensing chamber, they interfere with the conduction of electricity, reducing the current and triggering the alarm. These units can quickly detect an open flaming fire.

Photo Electronic

The photo electric detectors contain a small light source – either an incandescent bulb or light-emitting diode (LED). Smoke deflects the light into a photocell, triggering an alarm.