Four of every five-fire deaths result from home (one-or two-family
dwellings, apartments or manufactured housing) fires.
In 1999, 2,895 people died as a result of home fires. Half of all
home fire deaths result from fires that were reported between 10:00 p.m.
and 6:00 a.m. Only one-fourth of the home fires occur during
these hours. Only one-fifth of the home fire deaths were caused by
fires in which a smoke alarm was present and operated.
- 15 of every 16 homes (94%) in the US have at least one smoke
alarm.
- One-half of home fire deaths occur in the 6% of homes with no
smoke alarms.
- Homes with smoke alarms (whether or not they are operational)
typically have a death rate that is 40-50% less than the rate for
homes without alarms.
- Why do smoke alarms fail? Most often because of missing, dead or
disconnected batteries.
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Smoke detectors are an
easy way to assure the safety of you and your family. A properly
functioning smoke detector can alert occupants to a fire during its
early stages of development. Check and
clean your Smoke
Detector monthly to assure that it is working properly. If your
smoke detector(s) are hard wired install a battery operated unit as a
backup, remember that the electric type will not operate during power
outages. Smoke detectors
should be installed on every level of your residence with additional
unit installed in hallways outside of bedrooms. If you have any
questions concerning the installation of smoke detectors contact you
local Fire Department or Building Inspector. |
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