SMOKE DETECTORS

WHY YOU SHOULD BE CONCERNED ABOUT RESIDENTIAL FIRES

Nationally, over 5000 people are killed each year in their own home.
In fires where multiple deaths occur, 80% are between the hours of
9:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

In order to increase the total life safety in the State of Illinois, it is a
goal to have a minimum of one properly installed and operating
smoke detector in every home. Ideally you should have a smoke
detector on every level of your home to include: tops of stairways,
outside bedrooms and in the basement.

Installing, Maintaining and Testing Smoke Detectors: To insure
that your smoke detector will work properly, consult your owner's
manual to determine the proper procedures suggested for your
model.

SOME SUGGESTIONS:
1. Test Your Smoke Detector Weekly - Review your owner's man-
ual and determine the proper method suggested for your model. If
uncertain, contact your local fire department for proper instructions.
2. Replace Batteries Twice A Year - Establish dates for battery
replacement (spring and fall time change). Also, a chirping sound
indicates that the battery needs replacing.
3. Clean Your Smoke Detector Annually - Use a vacuum clean-
er to remove collected dust particles accumulating over the year's
period.
4. All Members of the Household Should Be Aware of the
Alarm Source - Review with all members of the household the loca-
tion and use of the detector. It is suggested that a different member
test the alarm weekly.
5. Contact The Fire Department For ALL Fires.

Last Updated: May 26, 1999