Seattle television station King5 recently ran a segment regarding the choice between the more common ionization type smoke detectors and the more rare photoelectric smoke detectors. According to the report, ionization detectors are better at signaling the presence of flaming fires, whereas photoelectric detectors respond better to smoking, low flame kinds of fires.
Click here to read or view the King5 report.
While most detectors sold are the ionization kind, some authorities note that house fires often begin small and smoky, such as those that start in seat cushions or when fabrics contact a baseboard heater. While the television report features statistics about the number of deaths in house fires where operating smoke detectors were present, King5 concluded the report not by advising homeowners to switch from ionization to photoelectric type, but instead they recommended the purchase both kinds of detectors.
The Griffin Fire Department offers free smoke detectors and smoke detector batteries to local residents. Be sure to check with them, though, regarding what type of detectors they are distributing.
Interested in shopping for smoke detectors, online? Purchases at Amazon.com made via the web site of the Griffin Neighborhood Association benefit the GNA at no cost to you.
The First Alert SA302CN detector combines both photoelectric and ionization detectors, in one device. It also has an interesting testing and disabling feature, using your television’s remote control:
First Alert SA302CN Double Sensor Battery-Powered Smoke and Fire Alarm
Kidde produced a dual-sensor detector, too, whose features are worth a look:
Kidde PI9000 Battery-Operated Dual Ionization and Photoelectric Sensor Smoke Alarm
If you are looking for a good photoelectric detector, and not a dual-detector, here’s one that’s well-reviewed. It’s also got an escape light:
First Alert SA720CN Smoke Alarm Photoelectric Sensor with Escape Light
Purchases made using any of these links will benefit the Griffin Neighborhood Association.
Looking for more choices, at Amazon.com? Click on this link to visit the Amazon.com Home Page
