Fire alarms are an integral part of every home. They silently protect the family and their possessions twenty-four hours a day. There are a great number of deaths each year that could have been prevented if there were functioning alarms placed in the building. Laws have even been passed that require homes to be constructed with fire alarms installed. However, even a pre-installed alarm requires monitoring to make sure that it continues to work.

There are two types of sensors that make up the bulk of all fire alarms. The first type is called an ionization sensor. This type of sensor does well at detecting fires which are burning very fast and moving though the structure. Those types of fires release ionized gas that can be tracked. The second type of sensor is called a photoelectric detector. This uses a small, light-sensitive device to try and spot pieces of particulate matter that is in the air. These particles are given off by fires that are burning more slowly, releasing more smoke that is heavier with debris.

Almost every governmental agency that deals with fire safety recommends using a fire alarm that contains both an ionization and photoelectric sensor. These types of units are known as dual sensor alarms. Dual sensor alarms are the most accurate way to detect a fire, no matter what the cause.

One key element involved in how the fire alarm and its sensors work is the exact location of where the alarm is installed. Because the particles that are being detect are floating along with the other gases in the room and gases tends to rise, then the alarms must be in a raised position. The particles in the air will accumulate near the roof when a fire starts, and the alarms must be as close to this area as possible. The manufacturer’s installation instructions will specify exact measurements.

There should be one fire alarm on each of the floors of the home, including the basement and garage. In addition, place alarms in each of the bedrooms where people may be sleeping. It is also recommended to place an alarm outside the door of each of the bedrooms for maximum safety.

The purpose of a fire alarm is to alert a family to the potential threat of a burning fire. This warning will fall on deaf ears if the family does not have a concise plan in place for what to do in this situation. It is very important that there is more than one escape route planned in the event that certain areas of the home or property become inaccessible due to the fire. There should also be a common meeting place for everyone to assemble once outside. The plan should be memorized and practiced.

Maintenance of the fire alarm is as essential as the installation. For a unit that uses a battery for power, they will need to be replaced every six months, regardless of whether they work or not. Regular cleaning is also needed to ensure the sensors do not become ‘blind’to particles in the air. Using a fire alarm is one of the easiest ways to save lives, and property.

Matthew Kerridge is an expert in home security. If you want more information about types of fire alarms or are searching for a reputable fire alarm business please visit http://www.adt.co.uk

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