[Spoiler Alert:] Canadians, Americans, and TV-watchers around the globe were shocked when the “This Is Us” family home burned because of a faulty crockpot and a smoke alarm lacking new batteries. However, homeowners shouldn’t fear such a tragedy if they install electrical alarms (with battery backups) in the right locations. When you’re doing a home renovation, it’s the perfect time to install a good warning system in case of smoke or fire.
Here is a list of fire alarm/smoke detector options:
1. Interconnected Alarms – Rather than count on one detector alerting you at a time, connect your alarms. If smoke or excessive heat is detected anywhere in the building, all linked detectors will activate, warning the entire house. Alarms can also be linked to phones to notify you when you are away. Monitoring software will contact emergency services immediately.
2. Alarms on Every Floor – Install alarms on every floor to detect smoke and fire. Typically, devices are installed in hallways and outside bedrooms. When alarms are interconnected, each one will ring when one goes off, waking sleeping residents.
3. Backups – Hard-wired alarms are generally reliable, but cannot function during a power outage. It is wise to have devices that also run on batteries (or install battery-operated backups) to provide peace of mind. Battery-operated detectors are inexpensive and beep to warn of low power. Remember to change alarm batteries at the beginning and end of “Daylight Savings Time” each year, or set calendar reminders.
4. Combination Detectors – There are two methods for smoke detection: ionisation and photoelectric:
- Ionisation detectors notify of fast-raging fires
- Photoelectric detect smouldering fires
For maximum safety, select a model that uses both techniques to detect fire/smoke.
5. Carbon-monoxide Alarms – In addition to smoke, fires emit carbon monoxide, known as “the silent killer” because it is odourless and colourless. Smoke detectors won’t protect against carbon monoxide emissions. CO can cause permanent brain damage if inhaled for long periods of time, and its ingestion can be lethal. Install a CO detector in bedrooms and other areas.
Not every family needs to suffer property damage and loss as the result of a fire, like the Pearson family on “This Is Us.” Install alarms during your next home renovation and protect everyone under your roof.
V-CAN Construction understands the importance of safety. We have a team of professionals, including electricians and architects, to meet building codes and alert you to possible threats. Contact us at (647) 560-4955.