A smoke alarm is a device used to provide an early warning of smoke inside a residence or building. Oftentimes the detection of smoke by the alarm is usually the first warning that will signal the occurrence of a fire. They are used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The type of alarm may vary in these situations based on the size of the building and the level of warning that may be required.
These alarms have become a primary device for saving thousands of lives especially in residential settings. These alarms have their biggest benefit to awaken sleeping persons when a fire or smoke is present. When a residence has them installed and kept in good operating condition, a smoke alarm can provide adequate warning to allow occupants to evacuate the dwelling safely. Since they are mass produced, the costs of the alarms are very reasonable especially for the level of protection that it can provide. They are very beneficial to protecting life and property at very low cost to the homeowner or business.
In residential settings, the smoke alarms are placed in key areas near bedrooms, in hallways, and areas where occupants sleep. The alarms should also be placed on each level of the dwelling to provide adequate coverage and warning.
In many states and local municipalities, residential homes are required to have one of these. In some areas, the alarms are hardwired to the local fire department or emergency services center. When the alarm is sounded, the smoke detector will automatically contact the appropriate emergency services. In commercial and industrial buildings, they are also required in addition to other measures such as sprinkler systems, fire doors, etc.
There are two primary types of alarms, photoelectric smoke detectors and ionization detectors. The photoelectric smoke detector uses a beam of light that when disrupted by particles of smoke, will sound an alarm. The inexpensive photoelectric smoke detectors work very well when there is a lot of smoke such as the amount that is produced when a smoldering fire occurs. The ionization detector, which is even more inexpensive than the photoelectric type, uses an ionization chamber and ionizing radiation to set off the alarm when smoke enters the chamber.
Proper routine testing and replacement of the batteries will keep the alarm in good working condition and allow it to provide the protection that will reap the most benefits.
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