Category: Wireless Smoke Detectors

There are dozens of emergency ladders out there but which is the best non permanent fire escape ladder?

Before we dive into it, there are important aspects that you would like to consider before purchasing that emergency escape ladder.

How Do I Choose The Best Fire Escape Ladder?

Now, you need to consider these 9 factors discussed below:

1. How Big is the ladder when not in use? A compact and fold-able ladder will occupy less space in your home. Majority of us do not want additional items especially if they are going to occupy a lot of space in the home. A ladder that can be stored in a closet or under the bed will save a lot of home space.

2. Rungs – they are better off with anti slip characteristics. Remember the evacuation will happen in a hurry and you do not want someone falling from height because they slipped.

3. Ease of Use – how quick the ladder is to deploy matters a lot. Every second counts in an emergency situation. Delays should not emerge because the ladder you have is not deploying with ease. That could mean life or death or serious injuries. Your ladder should be easy to attach to your window frame for evacuation and roll down easily.

4. The Length of the Ladder – how high is the window or emergency exit to he ground or safe location? How many storeys is your building? These will determine the length of your fire escape ladder. Generally, a storey is 14 feet high.

5. Supported Weight – this has to do with the maximum tested weight the ladder can support. This is an important factor. Make sure the ladder can support all the members of the family at the same time.

6. Flame Resistant – imagine a ladder that can easily be affected by flames or high temperatures! It would definitely not make sense to have it. To be a good emergency fire escape ladder, the material used to make the ladder must be flame proof. It will most likely be used in extreme high temperatures after all.

7. Stabilizers – this feature helps to steady the ladder away and against the wall. A dangling ladder increases the chances of slipping and missing a step as people are evacuating.

8. Hook Sizes – ensure you have known the dimensions of the your wall thickness especially around the windows which you intend to use the ladder. The hooks should be able to fit in well and support the weight of a person. If the hooks do not fit properly, you may introduce other unnecessary hazards like fall from height.

If the walls are a limitation to the type of ladder you have chosen, consider if a strong metal bar or eye bolts can be installed from which you can hook the ladder.

9. Potential Users – children below 5 years may require adults to carry them. A rapid baby evacuation device bag can be very useful. Children above 5 years may need an adult to guide their feet. Additionally, the elderly and the disabled may require more than an emergency evacuation ladder. Factor these in your fire emergency plans.

Having said that, here is the best fire escape ladder and why we have chosen it.

What is the Best Fire Escape Ladder?

Hunting for your best emergency ladder is no longer an uphill task as this article has made it easier for you.

Our No. 1 choice that is a great addition to your family fire plan with customer rating of 4.6 ⭐️ out of 5 ⭐️

Kidde 468093 KL-2S Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder

Features

• ✔️ Anti-Slip Rungs
• ✔️ 13-Foot long – enough for a two storey house
• ✔️ Ladder tested up to 1000 lbs
• ✔️ It is easy to use
• ✔️ Ladder is flame resistant
• ✔️ Fits over a window sill of 11 inches maximum
• ✔️ 5 year warranty

What is a Fire Escape Ladder?

Most commercial buildings are constructed with a permanent fire escape ladder. However, in residential houses that do not have the ladder as part of the building, then a portable non permanent emergency evacuation ladder is a requisite.

Permanent Fixed Escape Ladder

Despite permanent ladders being in existence, fire could potentially cut them off from being used when they are needed most.

Portable fire escape ladders become the best alternative to the primary fixed ladders. Hence the benefits of a non fixed emergency evacuation ladder cut across for all buildings, whether they have a fixed escape ladder or not.

The hooks of the ladder are placed on the wall hanging outside the wall to a place of safety outside. The material used to make them range from metal or rope with consideration to strength and durability.

It is recommended to have one large window where persons can escape from in case of fire emergency situation. It is from this window, that the ladder will be placed and every one can run for their dear lives.

Remember to consider all members in the building as to whether they can all be able to use the portable fire escape ladder. If not, please put alternative measures or controls to address their safety. There are clear regulations on emergency escape ladder safety and fire evacuation that you can get for your State.

How Many Fire Escape Ladders Do I Need?

The National Fire Protection Association, recommends one ladder in every occupied room on floors above the main level. The minimum you can have if you stay in a two storey house is one emergency escape ladder.

You have about 100 seconds to escape before the fire is all over the house. Moreover, you are not stuck if the normal exits are blocked by fire and neither do you have to depend or wait for fire emergency services to get to a safe place.

However, in case you use the emergency escape ladder in a real fire situation, it is recommended you replace it. The heat may have compromised the strength integrity. It may be unsafe for resuse. If you must reuse, have it checked by a professional.

Final Verdict

The best fire escape ladder is meant to save lives. Practice regularly with members of your family or office on the the use of the ladder. You want it to be effective when the moment demands for it! Everyone should be ready. Figuring out everything in the midst of an emergency could be very costly and regrettable at the end.

Are you looking to find out what is the best air purifier for smoke under $100 without spending a fortune? Then you are in the right place.

To get started;

Fresh air is related to a lot of health and psychological benefits. You can increase immunity, improve blood circulation as well as relieve stress from an aura of fresh air. Your kids and pets will also enjoy these advantages.

Why should you be concerned about smoke whether it is from the kitchen, cigarette or car garage? The simple reason is that smoke contains particulates that are harmful to your body organs which may lead to ill health eventually. The benefits of an air purifier are considerably many.

The respiratory system is the most affected.

Research has established that inhaling smoke (especially from cigarette) may lead to cancer. Smoke is an air pollutant and your respiratory system may be affected.

An air purifier works to eliminate smoke in the environment hence giving you a chance to breathe fresh air. You also get rid of odors and any harmful bacterial/microorganisms.

You may not realize it, but generally there is a better atmosphere at home especially considering non smoking members of the family who stay with smokers.

I will quickly take you through some of the best air purifier for smoke under $100. The good news is; It is possible to get a quality air purifier on a low budget – no need to break the bank!

In a hurry? check these Air Purifiers (all under $100)

Review of Top Air Purifiers for Smoke

LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Smokers Allergies and Pets Hair

Whereas, other brands may ironically be producing harmful air pollutants – ozone, LEVOIT air purifier is 100% completely ozone free.

Air is filtered through a 3 stage process. A pre-filter stage, true HEPA filter, and a high efficiency activated carbon filter that removes the odor, allergens, dust particles and smoke.

The product has an inbuilt reminder of when filter replacements are due. The filters are very pocket friendly compared to other air purifiers in the market. Hence the long term cost of having this air purifier is low to comparable brands. It is recommended you change your filters after 6 months.

The product is made in USA (California specifically) and is compliant with all the regulations of the state of California.

Customers have been impressed by the ability of the air filter to continuously keep fresh air circulating in a timely manner. Air is circulated up to 4 times within an hour.

The product has a 2 year warranty.

This is our no 1 choice in the category of best air purifier for smoke under $100.

VEVA 8000 Elite Pro Series Air Purifier

Veva 8000 elite pro uses activated carbon to eliminate allergens, Smoke, dust, pet dander & odor

Before the HEPA Filter, there are 4 pre cut filters that help to increase the life of the main filter. The life of the filter depends on usage and the general quality of the air where the purifier being used. The filter life may extend up to 12 months.

The 3 stage speeds gives you options to choose from depending on demand.

The design also is very flexible; by removing the base of the VEVA 8000 elite Pro series air purifier, it changes from a tower to a table top assembly.

With 2 year warranty and certified by UL as being ozone free, this is a high quality product suitable for your home or office. 

It is recommended for spaces not exceeding 325 Sq Ft.

Envion by Boneco – Therapure TPP240 – UV Germicidal Hemispheric Purification 

Therapure TPP240 works for large rooms (not exceeding 343 square feet capacity).

It uses ultraviolet irradiation to clean the air and get rid of harmful microbes.

The HEPA filter is cleanable hence no need to replace if you do not want to spend money on new filters.

PARTU Hepa Smoke Air Purifier – for Home with Fragrance Sponge

It’s a 100% Ozone Free and also uses 3 stage filtration that includes a true HEPA filter.

Additionally, it has a feature where you can add droplets of your favorite fragrance.

A lock button prevents unintended operation by kids or pets.

It is best suited for rooms not exceeding 10 meters squared. You can place it anywhere without taking a lot of space in the room. The sleek design adds some beauty into the room as well.

Customers liked it very much for its ability to remove pet odor and eliminate smoke.

MOOKA Air Purifier – Eliminator for Smoke

The air intake and discharge is omnidirectional (360 degrees) making fresh air circulation very efficient.

It uses a true HEPA filter that ensures particles as small as 0.3 microns are eliminated.

Its easy to operate and comes with a 3 year warranty.

Benefits of having an Air Purifier in Your Home or Office

If you leave near areas prone to forest fires, the smoke can be overwhelming and mess even the air in the house. A good air filter can help you have some fresh air inside your house. No need to feel uncomfortable anymore.

Air full of smoke around the house could also cause false alarms from your smoke detectors. You may also experience deterioration of the detectors, reducing their useful life.

Some air purifiers would remove 99.97% allergens, dust, pollen, pet dander and mold in the air. Hence giving you multiple advantages when using an air purifier for smoke.

The video below explains a HEPA filter and why it is very useful.

Polluted or contaminated air may cause sinus conditions, allergies and worsen the situation for asthmatic persons.

Today I will be answering the big question: Exactly how long does a smoke detector last?

NFPA has done a study that has revealed shocking statistics!

Only a few of United States residential occupiers know the expiry date of their smoke alarms! I will show you the statistics numbers shortly.

In the first place, it is possible to have old smoke detectors. Consequently, they have increased nuisance alarms / beeping and reduced probability of detecting visible or invisible particles of fire. This is a huge risk to have at home.

Over the last few years, there has been intensified adoption of various methods to prevent fire starting and spreading at homes. Not only does it range from emphasis on construction materials but also the use of smoke alarms among others, all aimed at reducing the impact of fire hazards in residential occupancy.

Residential smoke detectors have been very instrumental over the last 40 years in saving lives. Equally important, there has been a metamorphosis of smoke alarm technology and a great improvement on accuracy, reliability and feature enrichment. No doubt about that.

Here is the real thing though. All smoke detectors have an expiry date. Do you know how old your smoke detector is?

A smoke detector that is past the recommended useful life is a big risk to you, your family and property. Because there is no guarantee that it will work. Not to mention, chances are very high that it may fail to work in the unfortunate event of a fire in the home. Obviously, this is not what we want.

Now lets get straight to the answer.

How Long are Smoke Detectors Good for ?

Most smoke detectors have a life expectancy of 5 to 10 years. In particular, the older versions stay for 5 years and in like manner the current generation of smoke alarms last up to 10 years. The NFPA strongly recommends replacement of smoke detectors must be done at least every ten years.

At this instance, if you need to know the expiry date for your smoke alarm, you will need to check the manufacturing date of your smoke alarm at the back of your detector. From there, you can calculate how long it has lasted.

For anything above 10 years the next action is immediate replacement. If you do not find the date at the back of the smoke detector, you may have to open inside and look for a sticker or code indicating the date of manufacture.

A common mistake or assumption that people make is to calculate the expiry date from the date of purchase. Important to realize, a smoke detector useful life has to be from the date it was manufactured.

Important to remember, the new generation of smoke alarms has an inbuilt signaling alarm to let you know when the expiry date is drawing near.

How Often Should Smoke Detectors Be Replaced?

The key to having working smoke alarms in your house is to schedule monthly tests and replacing batteries promptly for the battery-operated smoke detectors. Nevertheless, hard wired smoke detectors and lithium battery powered alarms do not require the annual battery replacement. They can therefore serve you for 10 years if they remain functional (all other factors held constant).

After 10 years, you must replace the units. To test your smoke detector, press the test button and the alarm should go off. In addition, annual maintenance that includes cleaning and vacuuming to remove accumulated dust and cob webs may be necessary and can improve the usefulness period of you smoke alarms.

To clarify, the other most suitable time to replace your smoke detector is when they fail functionality test even before the ten years are over.

You can also do it in favor of additional features  currently in the market such as dual sensor detectors location talking smoke detectors, cool stylish designs or wireless smoke detectors.  A smoke detector with ten-year battery, should be replaced if the detector chirps with low battery alarms.

According to NFPA, more than 60 per cent of deaths caused by home fires occurred in a home with no smoke detector or a nonfunctional smoke detector. After 10 years, the sensor that should detect smoke or flame particles deteriorates with time. Consequently, current manufacturers cannot guarantee the ability of this sensor to work after ten years.

In another study done by NFPA, it was discovered that 20 per cent of American homes have smoke alarms older than ten years. Another 20 per cent are not sure about the age of their smoke detectors and even more shockingly, 90 percent did not seem to know about the 10 years rule of thumb when it comes to replacing smoke detectors.

What Does Your State Say; How Often To Replace Smoke Detectors?

Different states have responded diversely to this information. For instance, New York state has legislated a new law that requires vendors to strictly sell smoke detectors with an expiry of 10 years and should have no need of battery replacement before cessation.

Having non-removable batteries is an advantage because it discourages tendencies of people removing them for whatever reason and failing to return them.

Surprisingly, several people have admitted to removing smoke alarm batteries to prevent nuisance alarms while cooking or to use the batteries in other items e.g. TV remotes, toys, wireless mouse. This behavior creates a dangerous environment where there is no early warning in case of fire.

From time to time, officials from the fire departments and other organizations such as the red cross make door to door campaigns to spread the awareness and importance of having a working smoke detector. Awareness campaigns and social education are seen to play a major role towards behavior change on this important subject. More lobbying is required to keep our citizens safe.

What is the Difference between Smoke Alarms & Detectors?

An important factor to consider is the difference between smoke alarms and smoke detectors. The requirement for each is not the same. NFPA code 72 places a requirement on smoke alarms to be replaced after ten years and not smoke detectors.

If you don’t mind you can listen to the following webinar discussing NFPA72 (residential smoke detection requirements)

The sensitivity of the sensing components deteriorates with time. A basic way to distinguish the two: smoke alarms is the complete unit including the sensing unit and the sounding unit while smoke detector only refers to the sensing unit. Conversationally, the two words are interchangeable.

Finally, please remember there are combinational smoke alarms that have an additional carbon monoxide detector. These alarms fall in a different category and hence the ten year rule does not apply here.

Check the recommended replacement time with your manufacturer. Because of the carbon monoxide sensor the time is usually shorter than ten years and may be five to seven years.

How Long Do Carbon Monoxide Detectors Last?

We keep on getting this question, “ how long does a carbon monoxide detector last ”?

It would usually be indicated on the detector itself at the back cover (just like smoke detectors). Usually the time would be 5 years to 7 years.

Conclusion

All things considered, if you have checked the expiry date of your smoke detector or you have no idea when they were installed, we recommend that you replace them immediately. We have done an in-depth review of wireless smoke detectors that communicate with each other which we encourage you have a look at. Also check our article on best hard wired smoke detectors for a broad perspective in your search.

What would you do in case of fire at your residence or office? … panic or run away or call emergency services? A fire suppression system will give you that extra peace in your mind that the fire will not reduce to ashes what you have worked so hard to have.

✅ See the Best Home Fire Suppression System

Fire experts advocate for three significant things when it comes to fire safety. Prevention, Preparedness and Response. The best line of defense is prevention. However, you also need to be prepared in the event fire breaks out.

Assuming that there is fire, your smoke detector will alert you. The next thing is to follow your emergency plan ( hoping that you have developed one already and practiced). Once you are safe, you may call the emergency response services such as your fire department.

Not all fires are big. Most smoke detectors are very accurate and have practically eliminated false alarms. Hence, you may get to know of the fire immediately it starts. At this stage, most fires can be dealt with. For example by use of a fire extinguisher or fire blanket.

Fire thrives because of the presence of three things. Oxygen, fuel and source of ignition. Fire suppression works to eliminate either of the three. When you install a fire suppression system, you are taking an initiative that will preserve your property and in some circumstances life or prevent a fire situation turning worse.

Types of Fire Suppression Systems

You can classify fire suppression system on the basis of where or how they are used or the form of the substance they use.

Depending on location of use:

🔳 Kitchen fire suppression system

🔳 Restaurant fire suppression system

🔳 Car suppression system

🔳 Fire suppression systems for computer rooms or server rooms

Depending on how they are used and the substance in use:

🔲 Water or water sprinkler – the most commonly used. It could be automated or manually triggered. Automatic will be connected to your smoke detectors that will in turn activate the water sprinklers.

🔲 Inert Gases such as carbon dioxide & nitrogen – they act by excluding oxygen and the fire therefore smothers. In cases where you have electrical/electronic devices that may be destroyed by water, they are very effective.

🔲 Chemical Agent – can be either dry or wet. The most commonly used agent is potassium carbonate that is very safe.

There are a number of fire suppression system available in the market today. Our team has reviewed the best for you.

1. AFO Fire Ball, Fire Suppression Device

• It is very effective on class A, class B & class C fires. Every home needs one.
• Five years maintenance free
• The ball self activates when in contact with fire within few seconds.
• It is very easy to use and does not require any specialist skill to handle.
• The fire extinguisher ball is non toxic hence safe and environment friendly.
• It is also visible and one can see it in the buzz of an emergency situation
• It weighs only 3 pounds
• It can extinguish flames within an area of 100 square feet space
• When tossed to a fire it gives a very audible sound that warns/alerts persons nearby.
• When positioned in a fire prone area, it will detonate and suppress the fire even in the absence of a person. This is an advantage over fire extinguishers that must be operated by a human.
• There is no need to worry when the fire department will arrive. Customers who have tested this fire ball say it works.

USES

It can be used at home in the garage, kitchen, boat, car, restaurant, office, industrial places and many similar places.

2. Haven Automatic Fire Suppressant

It is very easy to install and activates only in high temperatures. It is suitable where water is not required. The product is designed with the inspiration of the experience of a professional fire fighter.

When fire starts, you have very few seconds to escape. This device kicks in and clears the way for you. It prevents further damage to property and suppresses fire to an area of 16 inches by 16 inches.

Temperatures of 135 degrees Fahrenheit will trigger this device.

This product will help you sleep with peace of mind. They can be mounted in each room of your house.

USES

Ideal for garage, escape routes, and kitchen.   

3. The Grill Armory Fire Blanket

This fire suppressant extinguishes fire by denying it oxygen. Grilling can be done more safely. An estimated 9,000 home fires are caused by grill fires. We love the smell of food on that grill but safety must take precedence. For safe grilling tips visit https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Seasonal-fires/Grilling.

You can also wrap it around yourself when there is a fire to protect yourself from excessive heat.

USES

It is suitable for cooking areas and meets ASTM F1989-05 Specifications.  If you love lighting bonfires, this product could be useful in case something unexpected happened.

4. 4 Liter FOAM Automatic release Fire Suppression System

• This takes care of class A, B and C fires.
• The foam is water based hence non toxic and friendly to the environment.
• It has 2 heads connected via braided stainless steel hoses that ensures you are protected in as much wide area as possible.
• It is automatically triggered by temperatures above 286 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The tank can be refilled once used.
• It is easy to install, no wires to run or control panel to monitor.
• There is no periodic maintenance required hence no additional costs incurred.

USES

Ideal for motor homes/coach 

5. Halon Fire Suppression System

The Halon 1211 fire suppressant works automatically when triggered by temperatures of 155 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is meant for Class A, B & C fires.

It uses an inert clean agent gas to smother fire once released and will effectively work within 17 cubic feet. It comes with 1 year warranty.

USES

Most ideal for RV generator compartments and compartments.

6. Auto Racing Fire Bottle Extinguisher System

If you love racing, this product may help keep safe.

It uses a clean gas agent, halon and meets FIA approval.

The nozzles break the foam to fine particles that suppress the fire. It meets the high standards of motor sports and has been effectively tested on engine fires.

See also: fire extinguisher for cars

The zero 2000 compound is less expensive to refill and non toxic hence friendly to the environment.

It activates via means of a pull cable.

Fire Suppression System pdf for Dowload

If you are looking for a detailed information on the standard for the installation of sprinkler system, this NFPA manual will greatly help.

Here comes Halloween celebrations on 31st October. This is a popular celebration in the western countries dedicated to remember the dead. An important aspect to consider is Halloween fire safety.

One of the many ways celebrations are done, is through lighting bonfires.

As you play those tricks and teases keep safety your no. 1 priority.

The reality is that every passing Halloween is becoming more violent and extreme than before. Children and adults alike are outdoing the norms by pushing the boundaries of sanity and safety.

I am not suggesting you dont go for your favorite Halloween costume or decorations. But be careful in your planning and actions.

Decorations are the first and easy to ignite. This is according to statistics by NFPA in their advocacy for Halloween safety.

There has been over 800 reported home structure fires due to Halloween celebrations annually!

An average of one person died each year in these celebrations of the dead. Keep decorations away from sources of heat. Remember the fire triangle.

Take care around candles. You may want to have a fire extinguisher at home that works.

There are dozens of Halloween deco, lighting and costumes that may interest you.

Have a way of detecting fire soon. It is very needful for your house to have smoke alarms and a plan for fire emergency preparedness. There is nothing to be afraid of. Not even the dead. No need to turn the lights off.

Many believe Halloween actually has both Christian & pagan roots, while others think its all satanic.

Some money will be spent, some fun will be created and some memories made. However, as we do all these let us also plan for safety.

For example, you can avoid flame candles and opt for battery operated candles or light sticks, leave all exits clear for safe evacuation or escape and test your home smoke alarm system in advance. If your children have to go to a Halloween party, please coach them on Halloween fire safety tips.