Fire & Life Safety Services
SMOKE DETECTORS
A working smoke alarm increases your chance of surviving a house fire by more than 50%.
The Evanston Fire Department reminds to change your batteries in your smoke alarm(s) as you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time. Change your clocks, change your batteries!
More than 6,000 deaths occur in house fires each year. Most people die from smoke and toxic gases and not the fire itself.
Protect yourself and your family by:
- Purchasing one or more smoke alarms
- Installing your smoke alarms properly
- Identifying and practicing escape routes
- Maintain your smoke alarms
What kind should I buy and how much should I spend?
- Smoke alarms can be either current or battery operated.
- Make sure the model has been listed by a recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratory or Factory Mutual.
- Smoke detectors can be purchased for about $10 - $30.
Where should I install them?
- Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling or high on a wall near the bedrooms. Install your smoke alarm away from air outlet vents to prevent dust accumulation.
- While it is only necessary to install one detector, additional will significantly increase your chances of survival.
Escape Plans
Once a fire has started, it spreads rapidly. Normal exits may become blocked by smoke or fire. You and your family should plan multiple escape routes to guarantee a safe exit.
- Plan two exits from every room. Second story windows may need a rope or chain ladder to enable occupants to escape safely.
- Choose a meeting place outside to meet, to ensure everyone has escaped.
- PLEASE practice your escape plan. Make sure children know exactly what to do; you may not be able to reach them at the time of a fire.
FIRE & LIFE SAFETY 
Fire Prevention
Smoke Detectors