“Don’t Wait – Check the Date!” Presentation Card (Adult)

Description

This “Don’t Wait – Check the Date” Presentation Card is ideal for conveying the need to know facts about smoke alarms in order to help communities become safer. One of the first steps in keeping homes fire safe is to install smoke alarms. They play a crucial role in alerting household residents to potential danger reducing the risk of dying in a home fire by about half. The majority of home fire deaths that do occur happen in homes without working smoke alarms.

The card begins by addressing proper smoke alarm placement. Smoke alarms need to be installed on every level of a house, including the basement, as well as outside sleeping areas and inside each bedroom. They should be placed on ceilings, four to 12 inches from the wall, or high on the wall, four to 12 inches from the ceiling. Not in corners or near vents, doors, or windows. Smoke alarms placed in the kitchen, bathroom, or garage are more likely to have false alarms due to cooking fumes, steam, and other air particles.

There are two main types of smoke alarms: ionization and photoelectric.

They are both reliable, but for maximum protection, install “dual sensor” alarms.. These alarms combine ionization and photoelectric technologies to ensure that both fast moving and smoldering fires are detected in a timely manner. You can also install interconnected alarms. These alarms communicate with each other so that when one sounds, they all sound.

Smoke alarms need to be tested every month, regardless of whether they are battery powered or hardwired. Replace batteries every six months. Especially if the alarm “chirps” signaling a low battery.

False alarms may happen from time to time, but disabling a smoke alarm is never a good response in these instances. Instead, press the alarm’s “hush” button or open a window or turn on a fan to ventilate the area.

In conclusion, the handout stresses the importance of being fire ready every day. Everyone in the home needs to know what the smoke alarm sounds like. Also, how to safely evacuate the home and where to meet outside in the event of a fire. Also, how to call for help in an emergency. Regular fire drills during the day and at night can help the household prepare for emergencies. Taking the proper precautions can mean the difference between life and death.

If you like this “Don’t Wait – Check the Date” presentation card, then check out more topics here.

For more Smoke Alarm Safety materials, click here.