The importance of smoke detectors

Let’s start off this article by first explaining the difference between smoke alarms and smoke detectors, and then we’ll look at why smoke detectors are important.

Smoke alarms vs smoke detectors

A smoke alarm is a device that sets off an audible alarm when it detects smoke. A smoke detector is purely a sensing and communication device that sends a signal to a connected fire alarm when smoke is detected – it’s this communication that makes the fire alarm go off.

So, whilst the terms smoke alarm and smoke detector are often used interchangeably, technically speaking, they are in fact 2 different devices.

That said, and for the sake of clarity in this article, the reader can assume the 2 terms to mean the same thing.

How often should you test your smoke alarm?

Checking the batteries in your smoke detectors regularly is always important for any home, but especially so in a listed property which can be more vulnerable to fire – for example, if your home is thatched.

We recommend you test your smoke alarm batteries (by pushing the alarm test button) at least once a month to avoid putting you and your property at any unnecessary smoke and fire risk.

But you should do more than that – you should also check the smoke detectors themselves

When we’ve visited clients, we’ve often come across aged smoke detectors which are simply not going to be as effective as a modern unit. These can be easy to spot as they’ve yellowed with age. This leaves you at a higher risk of fire.

What should you check on your smoke alarm?

1. Each smoke detector should have a replace-by date, which you can find on the back. If it’s past this date, it should be replaced immediately or as soon as possible.
2. The smoke detector should have a British Standard Kitemark on it – EN14604:2005 to be exact. The British Standard was devised in 2005, so if there’s no kitemark it’s either pre-2005 or not certified – neither is very good and should therefore be replaced.
3. Check for dust or cobwebs. Vacuum carefully with a soft brush around the edge of the alarm.

And of course…

Check that the battery is actually present and working by doing a regular alarm test as mentioned before.

Why are smoke detectors important?

• First and foremost, having a smoke alarm in your home will help save lives.
• When a fire occurs, it’s the smoke and other poisonous gases, like carbon monoxide, that tend to travel more quickly and farther than the actual heat of the fire, and it’s these gases that can be fatal. So, hearing a smoke alarm early can afford you the precious few minutes you need to escape and call the fire brigade.
• Often, tragedies happen when occupants are asleep and do not have enough time to escape once they’re aware of what’s happening. By the time they’ve woken up, the smoke and/or fire has already filled the building, making it very difficult to find a way out.

So, if you need to replace your smoke detector, look for one with the British Standard or CE safety mark and even better, buy one with a 10-year sealed battery. These are especially useful when fitting to hard-to-reach ceilings.

For more information on smoke alarms, visit the UK Fire Service website or, to speak to one of our team for advice, simply call us on 01622 476433.

And for residents living north of the border, please read our article on the new fire laws in Scotland.

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