The Office of State Fire Marshal urges Oregonians to clean and test their smoke alarms regularly. Working smoke alarms can dramatically increase a person's chances of surviving a fire.
      Smoke alarms provide an early warning to a fire, allowing occupants vital minutes to escape a fire. There are two types of smoke alarms for homes. One type is called an ionization alarm and the other type is a photoelectric alarm. Although their operating mechanisms are different, both types of alarms are equally effective in sensing smoke.
     When purchasing a smoke alarm, look for smoke alarms with a loud alarm, a hush feature, a ten-year battery, a malfunction signal and a UL listing. All ionization alarms sold in Oregon must have a hush feature and if solely battery-powered, a ten-year battery.
     "Compare prices before purchasing smoke alarms," says State Fire Marshal Robert Garrison. "Most hardware stores, home stores and other retail stores have excellent smoke alarms at reasonable prices."
     Most fire deaths are caused by smoke, not flames. And most fire deaths and injuries occur at night while victims are asleep. The earlier you are alerted to a fire, the more likely it is that you will get out in time. Smoke alarms won't prevent fires, but they will increase your chances of getting out and calling the fire department.
     "The key is to make sure your smoke alarms are working," said Garrison. "Many people forget that smoke alarms need to be maintained in order to be in proper working condition."

     Garrison encourages all Oregonians to take an active role in fire prevention and offers the following fire safety tips:
          A Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and in every bedroom.
          B Test smoke alarms monthly.
          C Vacuum alarms monthly to remove dust and cobwebs.
          D Replace old alarms. Smoke alarms ten years old or older need to be replaced.
          E Alarms should never be disconnected and batteries should never be removed for other uses.