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Overview
Fire alarms and smoke alarms are different but the terms are often used interchangeably. This article will review what each alarm entails and where to find them. The important thing to remember is that all fire and smoke detectors save lives when properly installed and maintained. A functioning smoke alarm will cut the possibility of dying in a home fire in half.
Fire Alarms
Fire alarms are part of an overall home alarm system that detects a variety of things. These can include heat, smoke, opened doors or windows and motion. Fire alarms are wired into the rest of the system during professional installation. When a fire is detected, the alarm sounds out through the overall system's speakers. These systems can be purchased through professional home alarm and monitoring companies.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are small devices that ar e attached high on a wall or to the ceiling and detect smoke or heat from a fire. A loud, piercing alarm sounds from the device to inform the homeowner of the threat of fire. These devices can be purchased at most home improvement stores and are installed by the homeowne. Interconnected smoke alarms are available with wires or with wireless capabilities. If one alarm detects smoke all the alarms sound off to be sure the homeowner will hear from anywhere in the house.
Location
You can find individual smoke detectors at home improvement stores or large discount stores. You can also purchase them online. If these are not options for you, check with your fire department. Some fire departments have them to give out to the public. If not, they will be able to direct you to a store that sells them. Some fire departments will also assist in installing them or changing batteries.
Cost
Cost varies for fire alarm systems from professional alarm companies and usually requires a monthly monitoring fee. Individual smoke detectors are the least expensive devices. Basic models cost as little as $7 per unit. More expensive units can be hard-wired into a home's electrical system. Interconnected smoke detectors are more expensive than basic units, but can be installed by the homeowner and provide overall coverage without using a professional alarm company.
Warning
Because smoke alarms detect smoke rather than heat for flames, they can sometimes be set off by cooking, shower steam, or spray chemicals. It is important to place fire alarms away from cooking areas, bathrooms and fireplaces to reduce the false alarms. If you have a smoke alarm in one of these areas, do not disable it; move it into another area. Always install them inside and outside of bedrooms to protect your family from fire as they sleep.
