According to U.S. fire departments, 53% of homes with smoke alarms sounded between 2009 and 2013. However, out of the 96% of homes in the United States with fire alarm systems, about 30% are not fully functioning due to age, broken parts, dead batteries, and battery removal. These systems are your home’s first lines of defense against potential hazards. That’s why you should know these three ways smoke alarms save lives and why you should ensure they’re functioning properly.

Sleeping Occupants

Without fire alarm systems, home residents may be unaware of the danger until it becomes serious. During a fire, occupants usually have an average of three minutes to make a safe escape. However, the average fire department dispatches firefighters in double that time. Therefore, if you’re sound asleep, you may not be aware of a deadly situation before it’s too late. Fire alarms work very similarly to any other alarms; they are designed to emit a loud noise to call attention to occupants and ensure a quick and safe evacuation.

Hazards in Other Rooms

If a candle or unattended cigarette catches fire in another room, and the occupants are upstairs, the entire bottom floor of the house may go up in flames before someone realizes what’s happening. Nowadays, with fire alarms in every room, serious situations can be detected sooner, significantly reducing the amount of danger and damage.

Inquisitive Children

Children are naturally curious about the world but lack the necessary life experience to understand when certain situations are dangerous or not. If your children are playing with something they shouldn’t, such as the stove or a lit candle, smoke or fire alarm systems will help alert you to the situation. It’s always important to educate children about fire safety, so they don’t put themselves or others in danger.

If you need to update, repair or replace your fire alarm systems, or simply want to know more about fire safety, contact GMW Fire Protection in Anchorage, AK. They provide 24-hour emergency services in addition to a variety of fire safety equipment to ensure the best residential and commercial fire protection. Give them a call at (907) 336-5000 or visit their website for more information.