Smoke Alarms Save Lives!

When fire strikes you may have less than one minute to safely get out of the building.

• Having working smoke alarms in your home can double your chances of survival if a fire occurs.
• Home fire deaths have been cut in half since the early 1970's when smoke alarms were first marketed.
• 50% of the fire deaths that occur each year in the U.S. take place in the 5% of homes without smoke alarms.

Fires produce heat, smoke and toxic gases

• Smoke alarms warn residents in the event of a fire. They give you time to leave the building before your escape route is blocked by deadly smoke, heat and toxic gases.

Special smoke alarms are available for the hearing impaired.

• The alarm can be wired to a light, which flashes when the detector is in alarm. A vibrating alert unit can also be used under a pillow while the person is asleep.

Plan and practice a home fire escape route

• Have two ways out of every room.
• Discuss the plan so each member of the family understands what to do in case of an emergency.
• Choose a place outside the home where family members can meet to be sure everyone is safely out of the building.

Information was obtained from the Office of the State Fire Marshal.