Home Alarms Systems

Fire Alarm Systems: Do you have an escape plan?

Nowadays many fire alarm systems are integrated with professionally installed home security systems that provide burglary protection.
These types of security systems usually consist of a central control panel that connects to smoke and heat detectors. When smoke is detected the system will sound an alarm in the home as well as alert the proper authorities ( fire and police  depts).  A quality home security system that includes a fire alarm is normally powered by the home’s electrical outlet, and also consists of a back up battery that can power the system for up to 24 hours if a power outage occurs.

Another advantage to this type of system is that multiple locations in the home can be monitored and it is possible to place additional bells or sound alarms around the house. This is a great advantage for the hearing impaired or those with disabilities.

For those who live in an apartment or those who cannot afford a sophisticated fire alarm system, the alternatives are still very effective. In most cases it will suffice to install a basic battery powered smoke detector in the main area of the dwelling.  They are easy to install and maintain. It is vital however, to make sure to test the batteries on a regular basis.

Even though a basic smoke detector is easy to operate and maintain, negligence to ensure that the smoke detector is functioning properly can be a matter of life or death.

In order for a fire alarm system or smoke detector to work effectively, when an alarm sounds, it is vital  that you have a good escape plan worked out in advance.

Here are a few important things that can help save you or your family member’s lives.

1.) Just get out ! If a fire breaks out, don’t waste time trying to save your property. If you don’t have a monitored system that alerts the fire department automatically, then call 911 from your cell or from a neighbor’s house.

2.) Plan to have 2 ways out of each room. It has often happened that people have found themselves trapped in a particular room in which the normal exit ( door) is blocked by fire or intense smoke. Many deaths have occurred due to a lack of preparation in advance for such an emergency.

It is important to take into consideration an alternate escape route , this usually means being prepared for a window escape. There are many quality escape ladders that you can puchase that are tested and approved by consumer protection groups. Make sure that all screens and  windows can be easily opened, if there are security bars installed they must have quick release devices that ensure a quick escape.

3.) It is a good idea to practice your escape route in the dark. In a real fire you won’t have much time to act, and most likely will not be able to think clearly if panic sets in. If the door happens to be closed the first thing is to feel the door with the back of your hand . Start by feeling the top of the door, the crack between the door and wall frame, and the door knob for signs of heat. If you can feel the door getting warm , use your secondary route of escape.

Do not assume that it is safe even if the door feels cool, smoke is a killer, the best thing is to open the door slowly with your shoulder braced against it, if heat and smoke pour in, slam the door immediately and go for the secondary escape route.

4.) Plan to have an arranged meeting place in advance, such as the front yard or driveway etc. This will help in determining that every one has escaped and is safe. If someone is missing do not re enter the house, allow the fire department to deal with the rescue , they are equipped and have expertise for such emergency rescues. Also plan ahead to have a designated neighbor that  can house your family while the fire department arrives, this is especially important if you had to escape during the night in the middle of winter .

Remember, once you are out of the house, STAY OUT, if someone is missing let the fire department deal with it. Do not risk your life!

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