Missing Batteries & Outdated Alarms Put U.S. Families at Risk
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An average of 3,000 Americans die in fires each year
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Nearly two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms or working smoke alarms, mainly due to missing or dead batteries. (NFPA)
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A recent Kidde survey revealed that 58% of Americans don’t know that batteries should be changed every six months; 61% have left their alarms without a working battery.
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Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. (NFPA)
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A recent Kidde survey found one out of four older U.S. homes need updated fire safety equipment; that equals 17 million homes with outdated smoke alarms.
Growing Trend Towards Smoke Alarms with Sealed, 10-year Batteries
Cities and states have begun requiring the use of sealed, 10-year battery smoke alarms because the technology:
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Offers hassle-free protection for a decade (the life of the alarm)
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Eliminates low battery chirps and battery replacement
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Prohibits unauthorized tampering or battery removal
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Provides an alert after 10 years to replace the alarm
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Saves property owners up to $40 in battery costs over the life of each alarm
National fire industry organizations that support this technology include: the National Association of State Fire Marshals; Smoke Alarm Technology State Task Forces in Maryland, Ohio and California; Centers for Disease Control; and FEMA through its Assistance to Firefighter (AFG) grants.
The following states have enacted 10-year legislation. Check the below Laws & Legislation Map for current information on your state.
