Based on a recent question from one of our District Residents about why and when should smoke detectors be replaced we are sending a little information.

Most smoke detectors built in the last 15-20 years use a technology in which air is ionized within a small chamber inside the detector.  To do that ionization a small amount of a low grade radioactive substance is used.  This substance decays over time and can render the detector either slow to react to the changing air (smoke in the air) or in a worst case not at all.  That is the reason for the suggestion to change them every few years or as indicated on the back of the unit...  Durham Highway FD recommends that you do indeed replace the detectors as they "age out" as prescribed by the manufacturer.  Hardwired detectors pose a bit more of a replacement challenge, as the connectors and system it may be wired into such as alarm systems, and resistance requirements etc and may have other specific needs.  Many of the larger licensed electrical companies provide that service.  We always recommend a battery detector as a back up unit for hard wired models, even if they have internal rechargeable batteries.  These backups can be very inexpensive sometimes less than $5/each.  The standard recommendation for Smoke Detector placement is 1 detector in each sleeping space, 1 in each of the common spaces (family room, Kitchen Bonus room etc) Of course as a Fire Dept we don't think you can ever have TOO MANY smoke alarms...  It wouldn't be right for us to recommend one manufacturer over another, but rest assured, any of the larger name companies are all good options. (Kidde, and Honeywell) being two of the largest and best known.  In addition to replacing your smoke detectors consider either installing or changing your Carbon Monoxide detector every 5-10yrs as well. We recommend at a minimum, 1 CO detector in the common hallways outside the bedrooms AND in any place that CO is likely to be present. Places such as; In or near fireplaces, gas/propane stoves, hot-water heater and furnaces. Any place that has a flame present.  Just one last recommendation. Consider the simple concept of making sure EVERYONE in your home understands 2 different ways out of the house. We are headed into the holiday season, which is typically when many of us have friends and family visit, and sadly when the majority of house fires and fatalities occur. Take a minute to explain to family and friends especially children, if they hear the sound of a detector their only job is to get OUT OF THE HOUSE.... Many unnecessary deaths occur because they tried to find Mom or Dad or the family pet.  Once outside pick a place for everyone to meet (mailboxes are great) and do a roll call and here's why...... When we roll up at 2 AM with lights and sirens our first priority is the lives of ALL in the house. If you can tell us AND SHOW US everyone is out of the house, we can focus on other priorities, like saving your pets, and property.  These simple, yet incredibly effective skills and behaviors can save your life or that of someone you love. Replace your batteries every 6 months and replace your detectors as indicated by the manufacturer.


If you have any questions let us know, we will be happy to answer them.
Working Smoke/CO Detectors DO SAVE LIVES!!!

Lt. Mike  Greenham
Durham Highway FD