Fire protection

Smoke detectors: Small devices, big impact

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Smoke detectors can potentially save lives in the event of a fire.

When a building fire breaks out, occupants typically have only about 4 minutes to get to safety. Beyond this, the situation can become extremely perilous, with just 2-3 breaths of toxic smoke enough to render most people unconscious, thus eliminating their escape options. This risk is particularly high during sleep when our sense of smell is inactive. This is true not only for humans but also for pets like dogs. Recognizing these dangers, many countries have made smoke detectors mandatory. These devices, equipped with built-in sensors, can detect smoke and alert occupants, typically through auditory or visual signals. They essentially function as an early warning system, potentially buying precious minutes for those in danger. In Switzerland, these devices are not mandatory, but given their potential to provide safety, it begs the question, why not have one?

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⁠Whether smart or conventional, smoke detectors monitor indoor spaces around the clock, usually offering reliable service for up to 10 years thanks to long-life batteries. The sensors trigger an alarm as soon as they detect smoke. This is a standard feature across all devices. Conventional smoke detectors already offer valuable protection at affordable prices. But what sets smart devices apart from conventional ones?

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⁠Smart smoke detectors, like those from Netatmo, Google Nest, or Eve Smoke, can do much more in an emergency. They can be connected and controlled via a smartphone and can also be integrated into a smart home system. Once integrated, emergency scenarios can be set up. For example, users can set up the system to illuminate escape routes when the smoke alarm is triggered, enabling quicker evacuation from danger. Additionally, multiple devices can typically be networked together. If one device detects smoke, all smoke detectors will sound the alarm. This is particularly useful in larger homes where an alarm from a smoke detector in the basement may not be audible in the attic.
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The advantages of smart smoke detectors at a glance:

• Receive notifications directly on your smartphone and usually control the smoke detector via your smartphone.
• Network the smart smoke detector with other smart devices.
• Network multiple smart smoke detectors together. ⁠

Which smart smoke detector is right for me?

The question of which smart smoke detector is right for you cannot be answered universally; it depends on factors like whether a smart home system is already in place for the detector to be integrated into. Also, different devices offer various additional features, such as an integrated night light.
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How is the smoke detector installed correctly?

Depending on the purchased smoke alarm, you should pay attention to the product-specific installation and maintenance instructions. Usually, a mounting plate is screwed to the ceiling, and the smoke detector is then attached to it. With high-quality devices, a small safety mechanism is integrated: if there is no battery in the device, it cannot be attached.

In principle, a smoke detector should:

• Be installed in all bedrooms, children's rooms, and adjacent corridors.
• Always be installed in a horizontal position, as smoke gathers at the ceiling first, and the detector can thus trigger an alarm as early as possible.
• Not be installed in the bathroom, kitchen, or rooms with a fireplace, as the risk of a false alarm due to steam is high.
• Cover a maximum of 60 square meters. If the rooms are larger, several smoke alarms should be installed.

6 Tips for fire prevention and preparedness

Installing a smoke detector at home is a good step towards preparing for an emergency. However, it is best if the detector never has to be used after installation. The following tips can help prevent a fire:

1.  Do not leave electronic devices on standby after use, but turn them off completely using the power switch.
2. Unplug appliances during extended absences or thunderstorms.
3. Do not cover lamps with clothes or other flammable materials. Especially old halogen lamps can get very hot.
4. Store fire blankets and fire extinguishers in a central location to quickly intervene in an emergency and prevent a major fire.
5. Do not place shoe racks or other flammable items in the hallway, as this is the main escape and rescue route for all residents.
6. Install smoke detectors in the living room, bedrooms, and corridors to be warned early enough; even in your sleep. ⁠

If a fire does occur…

If a fire does break out, it's important to stay calm and act smart. The following steps should be followed:
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Alert

Inform the fire department and other endangered persons, as well as possibly the building's central control.
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Rescue

If possible, without endangering yourself, rescue other people and animals. Wrap people with burning clothes in blankets or coats and roll them on the ground. Close windows and doors to prevent the fire from spreading. Leave the fire scene via escape routes such as stairs (never use the elevator).
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Extinguish

Extinguish the fire with suitable extinguishing agents, provided you or others are not put in danger.

You should never endanger yourself or others in an attempt to extinguish a fire. If you are unsure about what caused the fire, it's better not to act with the wrong extinguishing agents. For example, this video shows how dangerous it can be to extinguish a grease fire with water:

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Supplementary Products

Smoke detectors are the early warning system in case of emergency. To act correctly in such cases, it is helpful to have the appropriate extinguishing agents within reach. These include fire blankets and fire extinguishers. With these, you can effectively extinguish fires of different origins. In our Primeo Energie online shop, we offer a variety of products. Remember, with us, you shop climate compensated!