First Alert SA76CECN Smoke and Fire Alarm User Manual
- June 17, 2024
- First Alert
Table of Contents
- SA76CECN Smoke and Fire Alarm
- FIRE SAFETY TIPS
- BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
- FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS!
- WEEKLY TESTING
- REGULAR MAINTENANCE
- 1222, #PP3S, #6LF22; Gold Peak #1604P, #1604S. You may also use the Ultralife
- IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
- LIMITED GUARANTEE
- RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
- ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
- SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
- LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
USER’S MANUAL
*SMOKE AND FIRE ALARM**
SA76CECN Smoke and Fire Alarm
BATTERY
POWERED
IONISATION SMOKE ALARM
Models SA76CECN, SA76CEC-BXN
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke Alarm’s
operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by others, you must
leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.All Rights Reserved. ©
2003 BRK Brands, Inc.
BRK Brands Europe Ltd., Gordano Gate, Portishead, Bristol, BS20 7GG, UK
Customer Service Dept.: 01275 845024, E-mail address:
sales@firstalert.co.uk
*All First Alert® Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements, including BS5446: Pt. 1:2000 and are designed to detect particles of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced in all fires.
Ionisation technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric
technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater
amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible materials rapidly and
spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include paper burning in a
wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionisation
technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater
amounts by smouldering fires, which may smoulder for hours before bursting
into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes burning in couches
or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in
every bedroom of your home.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking materials
properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away from children;
3) Store flammable materials in proper containers; 4) Keep electrical
appliances in good condition and don’t overload mains circuits; 5) Keep
cookers, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6)
Never leave anything heating on the cooker unattended; 7) Keep portable
heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable aterials; 8) Don’t
let rubbish accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if they
are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert you to a
fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an
additional one in the kitchen along with a fire blanket. Have fire escape
ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs
are blocked.
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
IMPORTANT! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and “Locations
to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit monitors the air, and
when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give you more time
to escape before fire spreads. This unit can ONLY give an early warning of
developing fires if it is installed, maintained and located where smoke can
reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this manual.
This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent
or extinguish fires.
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
Battery powered or mains powered? Different Smoke Alarms provide different
types of protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of
your home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping
area. See “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For
Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can’t Do
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to escape.
It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor.
See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
Check Your Local Building Regulations
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family resi-
dence. It alone may not meet requirements for boarding houses, sheltered
housing, hotels, motels, hostels, inns or communal escape routes in blocks of
flats. See “Special Compliance Considerations” for details.
WARNING!
- This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is recommended that you install special units which use devices like flashing strobe lights to alert the hearing impaired.
- Do not connect this unit to any other alarm or auxiliary device. It is a stand-alone unit that cannot be linked to other devices. Connecting anything else to this unit may prevent it from working properly.
- Unit will not operate without battery power. The Smoke Alarm cannot work until you install the battery in the correct position (Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-”).
- This Smoke Alarm has a battery guard which prevents it from closing unless a battery is installed. This warns you the unit will not operate without a battery.
CAUTION!
- Do not install this unit over a mains cable junction box or holes in the ceiling. Air currents can prevent smoke from reaching the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from alarming. Only mains (AC) powered units are intended for installation over mains cables.
- Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding. It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your hearing.
- Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from operating properly.
HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM![First Alert SA76CECN Smoke and Fire Alarm
-
parts](https://manuals.plus/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/First-Alert-SA76CECN- Smoke-and-Fire-Alarm-parts.jpg) Cover
- “OPEN HERE” tab
- Cover hinge
- Test button
Parts
- “OPEN HERE” tab
- Test button
- Sensing chamber
- Smoke Alarm base
- Mounting slots
- Install 9V alarm battery here
FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS!
This unit is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, or on the wall if
necessary.
Tools you will need:
- Pencil
- Drill with 5 mm (3/16 inch) drill bit
- Standard/Flathead screwdriver
- Hammer
- Hold base firmly and pull up on cover tab marked “OPEN HERE.” This will open the hinged cover. The cover may unsnap from the base if it’s opened too far. This will not damage the unit—the cover hinge snaps back into place easily.
- Hold the Smoke Alarm base against the ceiling (or wall) and make a mark at the centre of each of the mounting slots with a pencil.
- Put the unit where it won’t get covered with dust when you drill the mounting holes.
- Using a 5 mm (3/16 inch) drill bit, drill a hole through each pencil mark.
- Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary, until they are flush with theceiling or wall.
- Tighten the screws (provided) into the screw anchors, then loosen them two turns.
- Fit the Smoke Alarm over the screw heads as shown. Close cover.
- If the Smoke Alarm cover does not line up the way you want it, rotate the base and re-tighten the screws.
- Activate the battery. With the cover open, remove and reinstall the battery so the terminals on the battery match the terminals on the Smoke Alarm. Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-.” Push the battery in until it snaps in securely and cannot be shaken loose. If the battery is not snapped in completely, the unit cannot receive battery power. The Smoke Alarm may beep briefly when you install the battery—this is normal.
- Close the cover all the way. 11. Test the Smoke Alarm. See “Weekly
Testing.”
WEEKLY TESTING
WARNING!
NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might
accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-in test
switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by British Standards
(BSI). If you choose to use an aerosol smoke product to test the Smoke Alarm,
be certain to use one that has been certified to British Safety Standards, and
use it only as directed. Use of non-BSI certified products or improper use of
BSI certified products may affect the Smoke Alarm’s sensitivity.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working
properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this Smoke
Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the cover of the unit until the alarm
sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a few seconds after you release the
button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiving power and test
it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately. During testing
you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: beep, beep, beep…
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
This unit has been designed to be as maintenance free as possible, but there
are a few simple things you must do to keep it working properly.
WARNING!
Use only the replacement batteries listed below. The unit may not operate
properly with other batteries. Never use rechargeable batteries since they may
not provide a constant charge.
- Test it at least once a week.
- Test units used in caravans after the vehicle has been in storage, before every trip, and once a week while in use. Failure to test units in caravans as described may remove your protection.
- Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. Test the Smoke Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
- If the Smoke Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust and/or grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms, replace the unit immediately.
- Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See “Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” for details.
- When the battery becomes weak, the Smoke Alarm unit will “chirp” about once a minute (the low battery warning). This low battery warning should last for a minimum of 30 days, but you should replace the battery immediately to continue your protection.
- Test for proper Smoke Alarm operation using the test button whenever the battery is replaced.
Choosing a replacement battery:
Your Smoke Alarm requires a standard 9V battery. The following batteries are
acceptable as replacements: Duracell #MN1604; Energizer #522, #6LR61; Eveready
1222, #PP3S, #6LF22; Gold Peak #1604P, #1604S. You may also use the Ultralife
U9VL-J lithium battery for longer service life between battery changes. These
batteries are available at many local retail stores.
CAUTION!
When using a lithium battery there is a danger of explosion if the battery
is incorrectly replaced. Replace a lithium battery only with the same or
equivalent type.
IMPORTANT!
Most carbon zinc batteries have an average service life of 1 year; most
alkaline batteries have an average service life of 1-2 years; most Lithium
batteries have an average service life of 6-10 years.Actual battery service
life depends on the Smoke Alarm and the environment in which it is installed.
All the batteries specified above are acceptable replacement batteries for
this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s suggested battery life, you MUST
replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “chirping” (the “low
battery warning”).
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: beep, beep,
beep…
- If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death.
- Never remove the batteries from a battery operated Smoke Alarm to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Removing batteries disables the alarm so it cannot sense smoke, and removes your protection. Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.
- If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
- Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
- Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get dressed or collect anything.
- Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a door is cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors and windows closed, unless you must escape through them. • Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
- Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
- Call the Fire Brigade as soon as possible from outside. Give your address, then your name.
- Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
- Contact your Fire Brigade for ideas on making your home safer.
WARNING!
IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak
batteries, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or
installation in an improper location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in
“Regular Maintenance,” and install a fresh battery, then test the Smoke Alarm
again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the
problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
- If you hear a “chirp” once a minute, replace the battery.
- If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
- If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or relocating the Smoke Alarm. The Alarm may be dirty or dusty.
- If the alarm does not sound during testing, try installing a new battery, and make sure it is snapped in securely.
CAUTION!
When using a lithium battery there is a danger of explosion if the battery
is incorrectly replaced. Replace a lithium battery only with the same or
equivalent type.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your guarantee! If the
Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under guarantee,
please see “How to Obtain Guarantee Service” in the Limited Guarantee below.
Alarms have various limitations. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for
details.
LIMITED GUARANTEE
BRK Brands Europe Ltd., (“the Company”), guarantees its enclosed Smoke Alarm –
but not the battery – to be free from defects in materials and workmanship
under normal use and service for a period of ten years from the date of
purchase. BRK Brands Europe Ltd. makes no other express guarantee for this
Smoke Alarm. No agent, representative, dealer or employee of the Company has
the authority to increase or alter the obligations or limitations of the
Guarantee. The Company’s obligation of this Guarantee shall be limited to the
repair or replacement of any part of the alarm which is found to be defective
in materials or workmanship under normal use and service during the ten year
period commencing with date of purchase. The Company shall not be obligated to
repair or replace alarms which are found to be in need of repair because of
damage, unreasonable use, modifications or alterations occurring after the
date of purchase.
How to Obtain Guarantee Service
Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer.
In order to obtain guarantee service, please telephone the Customer Service
Dept. on 01275 845024 to arrange return.
Battery: BRK Brands Europe Ltd. make no guarantee, express or implied, written
or oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular
purpose with respect to battery.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
British Standards (BSI) recommend one Smoke Alarm on every floor, in every
living area, and in every bedroom or sleeping area. See “British Standards
(BSI) Recommendations” for details. For additional coverage, it is recommended
that you also install a Smoke Alarm in halls, storage areas, finished attics
and roof voids. Make sure no door or other obstruction could keep smoke from
reaching the Smoke Alarms or minimize the sound level produced from ensuring
the occupants from hearing the alarm signal.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
- Where temperatures normally remain between 4˚ C (40˚ F) and 38˚ C (100˚ F).
- On every level of your home, including finished attics.
- Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with doors closed.
- In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple sleeping areas, install a unit in each.
- If a hall is over 7.5 metres (25 feet) long, install an alarm at each end.
- At the top of the first-to-second floor and subsequent floor stairways, and at the bottom of the ground floor stairway.
IMPORTANT!
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation may vary from region to
region. Check with your local Fire Brigade and Building Control for current
requirements in your area.
See “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” diagram on the following page.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS BRITISH STANDARDS (BSI)
RECOMMENDATIONS
BS 5839 Part 6 (Code of practice for the design and installation of fire
detection and alarm systems in dwellings)
Smoke Alarms shall be installed in all circulation spaces (normally hallways
and staircases) that form part of escape routes, one on every level, and in
all rooms and areas that present a high fire risk. Additionally, Smoke Alarms
should also be installed between the sleeping area(s) and the most likely
sources of fire (living room and kitchen).
If there are long hallways, corridors, or protected rooms or areas over 7.5
metres (25 feet) from the nearest unit, the installation of additional Smoke
Alarms may be necessary. Roof voids containing stored combustibles or sources
of ignition may also warrant the installation of additional Smoke Alarms.
The installation of Smoke Alarms in kitchens, toilets, bathrooms or shower
rooms is not normally recommended, as these locations occasionally experience
conditions that can result in improper operation.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, it is recommended you AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in
these areas:
- Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form when something burns. Areas to avoid include kitchens, garages, and boiler rooms. Keep units at least 3 metres (10 feet) from the sources of combustion particles (cooker, boiler, space heater) 6 metres (20 feet) if possible. Ventilate these areas as much as possible. Note: If you must install Smoke Alarms closer than 6 metres (20 feet) from a source of combustion particles, keep the area well ventilated, and the Smoke Alarms clean.
- In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
- In very damp, humid or steamy areas keep units at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from bathrooms, toilets, showers, dishwashers, etc.
- Where the temperatures are regularly below 4˚C (40˚F) or above 38˚C (100˚F), including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or roof voids.
- In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm directly over the cooker. Keep laundry room Smoke Alarms free of dust or lint.
- Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can blow smoke away from the unit, preventing it from reaching the sensing chamber.
- In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing chamber and cause unwanted alarms.
- Less than 300 mm (12 inches) away from light fittings. Electrical “noise” can interfere with the sensor; i.e. fluorescent lights, etc.
- Where the bottom edge of wall mounted Smoke Alarms is placed below the level of any door opening.
- In rooms which are being decorated, painted or artexed.
- In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.
Avoiding Dead Air Spaces
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.
To avoid dead air spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.
On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the centre of the ceiling as
possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke Alarm at least 300 mm (12
inches) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building regulations), the top edge of Smoke
Alarms should be placed between 150 and 300 mm (6 and 12 inches) from the
wall/ceiling line, below typical “dead air” spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install the first Smoke Alarm
within 0.9 metres (3 feet) of the peak of the ceiling, measuring horizontally.
Additional Smoke Alarms may be required depending on the length, angle, etc.
of the ceiling’s slope. Refer to BS 5839 Part 6, 5588 Part 1 and local
building regulations for details on requirements for sloped or peaked
ceilings.
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
Battery (DC) powered Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when electricity
fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
Units are easy to install, and do not require professional installation. May
also be interconnected, model dependent, so if one unit senses smoke, all
units alarm.
Mains (AC) powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses
smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails.
Mains (AC) with battery (DC) back-up: will operate if electricity fails,
provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Mains (AC) powered
and mains powered with battery back-up (AC/DC) units must be installed by a
qualified electrician.
All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if
located, installed and cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if
smoke reaches them. If you are unsure which type of Smoke Alarm to install,
refer to British Standard (BS) 5839 Part 6 and 5588 Part 1.
BSI, 389 Chiswick High Road, London, W4 4AL, UK. Local building regulations
may also require specific units in new construction or in different areas of
the home.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
WARNING!
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire
detection systems in places housing many people—like blocks of flats (communal
escape routes), hotels, motels, hostels, inns, hospitals, long-term health
care facilities, nursing homes, day care
facilities, boarding houses or sheltered housing of any kind—even if they were
once single-family residences. It is not a suitable substitute for complete
fire detection systems in warehouses, industrial facilities, commercial
buildings, and special-purpose nonresidential buildings which require special
fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building regulations in
your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional protection in
these facilities.
The following information applies to all four building types below: In new
construction, most building regulations require the use of mains (AC) or mains
powered with integral standby supply (AC/DC) Smoke Alarms only. In existing
construction, mains powered (AC), mains powered with integral standby supply
(AC/DC), or battery (DC) powered Smoke Alarms can be used as specified by
local building regulations.
Refer to British Standard BS 5839 Part 6 and BS 5588 Part 1, local buildings
regulations, or consult your Fire Brigade for detailed fire protection
requirements in buildings not defined as “dwellings.”
-
Single-Family Residence:
Single family home. It is recommended Smoke Alarms be installed in all circulation spaces (normally hallways and staircases) that form part of escape routes, on every level, in all rooms and areas that present a high fire risk and between the sleeping area(s) and the most likely sources of fire (living room and kitchen). -
Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence:
Blocks of flats. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual flats, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like foyers, hallways, corridors, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection by-laws/ regulations. -
Institutions:
Hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care facilities. This SmokeAlarm may be suitable for use in individual patient sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like foyers, hallways, corridors, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not rovide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection by-laws/regulations. -
Hotels and Motels:
Also hostels, inns, boarding houses and sheltered housing. This Smoke Alarm may be suitable for use inside individual sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like foyers, hallways, corridors, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection by-laws/ regulations.
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home
fires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only work
if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke reaches
them. They are not foolproof.
Smoke Alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at
least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to
grandparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice
before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or
others do not readily waken to the sound of the Smoke Alarm, or if there are
infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is
assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency.
It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping
in order to determine their response to the sound of the Smoke Alarm while
sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an
emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot
work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of
batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC units
cannot work if the AC power is cut off
for any reason (open fuse or circuit breaker, failure along an electrical
mains or at a power station, electrical fire that burns the electrical wires,
etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations of battery or AC power,
install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach them. Smoke
from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed
doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the alarm. That is why one
unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping area—especially if
bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and in the hallway between
them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the home.
For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect smoke from
a ground floor fire until the fire spreads. This may not give you enough time
to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum protection is at least one
unit in all circulation spaces (normally hallways and staircases) that form
part of escape routes, on every level, and in all rooms and areas that present
a high fire risk. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not
provide as much protection as interconnected units, especially if the fire
starts in a remote area.
Some safety experts recommend installing interconnected mains (AC) powered
units with battery (DC) back-up (see “About Smoke Alarms”) or professional
fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm.
Interconnected units may provide
earlier warning than standalone units since all units alarm when one detects
smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets
or exceeds current Standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located
outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed
alcohol or drugs, 3) the alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV,
traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing
impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual and
audible alarms, etc. should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage,
injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit
immediately. Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing
with matches, or fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping
gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms
are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time.
You must test the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection.
Smoke Alarms cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for
property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. T he unit should be replaced
immediately if it is not operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke
Alarm after 10 years from date of purchase. Write he purchase date on the
user’s manual and keep in a safe place for future reference.
For your records, please record:
Date Purchased:____
Where Purchased:
For your records, please record:
Date Purchased:____
Where Purchased:
References
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