Personal Injury Law

Which Smoke Detector is Right for You?

By Megan Roth

    In the event of a fire, what type of flames will occur?  What will cause those flames?  How quickly will it spread?  All valid questions, right?  And each of these factors into just how effective a smoke detector is in the event that a fire occurs.  Unfortunately, however, the type of a fire cannot be predetermined; there's no legitimate way to predict any of the aforementioned factors.  Thus, the United States Fire Administration recommends installing both ionization and photoelectric alarms so you can be warned in the event that either type of fire occurs.

    However, since this isn't a practical option for many consumers, the USFA recommends installing dual-sensor smoke alarms, which react effectively to any fire, regardless of its type.  In fact, Consumer Reports ranks the First Alert Dual Sensor smoke detector the "best all around" smoke detector.  What's earned it this title?

    This particular smoke detector comes with a 10-year warranty and features a combination of ionization and photoelectric sensors, which (as mentioned in yesterday's post) qualifies as the most accurate detection method available.  It has Intelligent Sensing, which differentiates between non-threatening conditions and genuine emergencies (a HUGE plus if you're like me and have a tendancy to forget things once you put them in the oven!). It automatically conducts a daily self-check test, comes equipped with a remote control to silence it's alarm or run a manual test, and operates a 9-volt battery, which is easy to replace. 

    Even better, the smoke detector of all smoke-detectors (if you will), can be purchased online

for a mere $20.  Granted, this seems pricey when compared to other versions of the device; however, put things in perspective for a moment and consider all that could be saved should the smoke detector actually be needed.

    Dual sensor smoke detectors really are as easy to use and install as they seem; however, there are also minor downsides.  Several consumers have reported triggering the test functions on various detectors with their television remotes; thus, placement of the device should be considered and can have an effect on overall accuracy.

    Certain other factors should also be considered in order to ensure the device is accurate; first, never purchase a smoke detector if it's packaging doesn't have a seal of approval from a laboratory (this ensures the product has passed inspection).  Also, make sure the product comes with adequate installation and maintenance instructions.  Assuming both of these are included, go ahead - make your purchase and take it home for proper installation.

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on June 12, 2008 (boomark / email).