What Are the Dangers of Smoke Detectors?

Old Smoke Detectors

• Old smoke detectors are not as reliable as their newer counterparts, and their performance degrades over time. Smoke detectors have a serviceable lifespan of 8 to 10 years, according to the U. S. Fire Administration. Write the date on which you purchase new detectors on or inside the units, and replace them between the 8- and 10-year time span, regardless of whether they still seem to be working properly. Otherwise, unforeseen failure could place your family at risk.

Smoke Detector Types

• Smoke detectors work with ionization or photoelectric sensors, each of which is best at detecting certain fire types. Ionization detectors quickly warn you of fast-spreading flames, the U. S. Fire Administration explains, while photoelectric detectors are triggered by the smoke from smoldering fires before major flames break out. You could reduce your escape time by using the wrong type of detector in household areas. For example, a living room is prone to smoldering fires in the upholstery, while a utility room could have a fast-moving fire if flammable cleaning supplies are stored there. Cover all your bases with combination detectors, which use both detection methods, or install both types of units in appropriate areas of your home.

Dead Batteries

• Smoke detectors provide ample warning when their batteries are low by making an incessant chirp. You render them useless if you remove the old batteries without immediately putting in new ones. Others in the household might have a false sense of security if they do not realize the detectors have no power. Prevent this by setting a specific date, like the daylight savings time transition, to replace the batteries in every household detector even if the current batteries still have some power.

Malfunctions

• Smoke detectors can malfunction just like other mechanical devices, but the consequences can be deadly if you do not know there is a problem. Test your detectors regularly at least once each month with the built-in tester button, and vacuum out dust, dirt and other debris that gathers over time. Have multiple detectors in your home to pick up the slack in case one fails during a fire.