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
Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Yes! Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly. Every home should have at least one CO detector on each level, especially near sleeping areas. CO detectors should be installed if you have:Gas appliances (furnace, water heater, stove, dryer)Fireplace or wood-burning stoveAttached garageAny fuel-burning equipmentReplace CO... Read The Rest
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 prepare for wildfire season?
Johnson County experiences wildfire risk, especially during dry conditions. Protect your property with these defensible space measures:Clear vegetation within 30 feet of structures (mow grass, remove dead plants)Trim tree branches 10 feet from your roof and chimneyRemove debris from gutters, roof, and under decksStack firewood at least 30 feet from... Read The Rest
Check Your Smoke Alarm Placement
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, inside every bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Mount them on the ceiling or high on a wall, 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling. Avoid placing them near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts could interfere with their operation.
A Firefighter's Gear Weighs Over 70 Pounds
A fully equipped firefighter carries more than 70 pounds of protective gear, including a helmet, turnout coat and pants, boots, gloves, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and tools. Wearing this gear while fighting a fire in extreme heat requires peak physical fitness and continuous training.