A Word About Smoke Detectors

Fire strikes every sixteen (16) seconds, expands 1,100% in four (4) minutes and kills in excess of three thousand seven hundred (3,700) people annually across the nation.

Smoke Detectors are considered to be "early warning" fire detection devices because of their design and operation. Installation of smoke detectors within the residence is believed to reduce chances of dying in fire 59%. Costs of the Smoke Detectors vary from the least expensive of ionization (radioactive) type to the more expensive, photoelectric.

Smoke Detectors available for purchase in most stores today are generally the ionization type because of the cost difference to the consumer, hence, are the most widely purchased.

Most Smoke Detectors available today are powered by batteries which also vary in cost to the user. The consumer, when considering Smoke Detectors for her/his premises should also consider the cost and availability of the replacement batteries which vary from the most common and accepted nine (9) volt alkaline ($1.75) to the more expensive twelve (12) volt mercury ($9.00), which may not be cost attractive to some.

NOTE: Rechargeable (ni-cad) batteries should not be used in Smoke Detectors as they are not compatible for use, not attaining the higher and required level of voltage for operation.

The Smoke Detector(s) submitted for the drawing(s) are photoelectric Smoke Detectors and operate at nine (9) volts using the lesser cost batteries which last about a year. A "chirping" is heard when the battery is questionable. A "test" button, sounder and indicator should be used, heard and viewed monthly.

Should you have a question, or desire more information feel free to phone us.

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02/22/02