FAQ

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.

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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
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
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
Close Your Door Before Bed
Keeping your bedroom door closed while you sleep can hold back flames and toxic smoke for several minutes, giving you critical extra time to escape. A closed door can mean the difference between a survivable and unsurvivable room temperature during a house fire.
Stop, Drop, and Roll Still Works
If your clothing catches fire, do not run. Running fans the flames and makes them worse. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll back and forth until the fire is out. This technique has saved countless lives since it was first taught in the 1970s.