Smoke detectors are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke detectors give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

Safety Tips

• Install smoke detectors inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. Install devices on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Large homes may need extra smoke detectors.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
• Test all smoke detectors at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the device is working.
• There are two kinds of smoke detectors. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of alarms in the home.
• A smoke detector should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use 0special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Facts

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level. Smoke alarms should be connected so when one sounds, they all sound. Most homes do not have this level of protection.
• Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or the alarms are not working.

Sound The Alarm

by the American Red Cross

How to get an alarm...? 

For all Marin County residents, please visit the American Red Cross of the North Bay for more details around free 10 year smoke detectors.

• The "Sound the Alarm" program utilizes an online request form, to have their volunteers visit your property and install all the 10 year smoke detectors required.

• You can call the Bay Area Chapter of the Red Cross at: (415) 427-8000.

Want to get involved...?

The Southern Marin Fire District invites our residents to consider volunteering with the American Red Cross to get involved in this great program. Visit the Red Cross volunteers of the North Bay site to learn more.

Where do they go...?

Learn where to place your smoke & CO (carbon monoxide) detectors. Review this helpful smoke & CO alarm requirement form for all residential properties.

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