Smoke Detectors

     Tests have shown that smoke detectors of either the ionization or photoelectric type should provide adequate warning to the occupants for most residential fires.  Ionization detectors respond slightly faster to open, flaming fires than the photoelectric type.  But the photoelectric detectors respond faster to smoldering fires with little or no visible flame.

     Detectors should be located on the ceiling at least four inches from the wall, or on the wall four to twelve inches from the ceiling to the top of the detector.

     Smoke detectors in your home can be of the battery-operated type or wired into your house electrical system, otherwise known as “hardwired.”  There are also dual-function detectors that are hardwired but have a back-up battery in case of power failure.  Choosing between photoelectric or ionization type is up to you, as both types meet the accepted safety standards.