Fire Safety

How many smoke alarms do I need?

One smoke alarm isn’t enough! You should have at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom and in the hallway outside each bedroom. A typical three-bedroom home would need at least four properly installed smoke alarms to provide a reasonable amount of protection for your family. Smoke rises, so the best place to install an alarm is on the ceiling or high on an inside wall approximately 6-8 inches below the ceiling.

Anytime your smoke alarm goes off, check your home thoroughly. If you see or smell smoke, immediately get out of your home and call 911. Ensure that other family members and pets are also evacuated from the home.

More Answers About Fire Safety

Fire Safety
Why is my smoke alarm chirping?
If the detector is chirping and no sign of fire or smoke is present, replace the battery as soon as possible. Without a working battery, a smoke detector can't do its job and the risk of dying in a fire increases greatly. Smoke detector batteries should be changed when you... Read The Rest
Fire Safety
How do I prevent kitchen fires?
Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires. Follow these safety tips to prevent cooking fires:Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling foodKeep flammables away from the stovetop (towels, packaging, curtains)Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills and burnsKeep a lid nearby to smother grease fires -... Read The Rest
Fire Safety
Can I get a free smoke detector?
The Briaroaks Fire Department purchases a limited number of smoke alarms for distribution to residents who may otherwise not be able to afford them. Please submit a contact form with your request and someone will be in contact to discuss the options with you. The fire department can also assist... Read The Rest
Cooking Fires Are the #1 Cause
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is by far the biggest contributing factor. Never leave the kitchen while something is on the stove, and keep flammable items like towels and paper away from the burner.
Most Fatal Fires Happen While People Sleep
The majority of fatal home fires occur between 11 PM and 7 AM, when people are asleep and less likely to detect smoke early. This is exactly why working smoke alarms in every bedroom are so important — they are your early warning system when you are most vulnerable.