Family Gard FG888D User manual

Model FG888D
3055574
UL STANDARD 217
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke
Alarm’s operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by
others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Fire Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Before You Install This Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
How To Install This Smoke Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Weekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
If This Smoke Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
What To Do In Case Of Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
If You Suspect A Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
About Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Special Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Limitations Of Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
© 2007 BRK Brands, Inc., a Subsidiary of Jarden Corporation. All rights reserved.
BRK Brands, Inc., 3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
Consumer Affairs: [phone] • www.firstalert.com
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Printed in Mexico
M08-0087-003 A02/07
*All Family Gard®Alarms conform to regulatory requirements,
including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of combustion.
Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced in all fires.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric
technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced
in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible
materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include
paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization
technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced
in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for hours
before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes
burning in couches or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each
level and in every bedroom of your home.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking
materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away
from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers; 4) Keep
electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical
circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease-
and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended;
7) Keep portable heaters and open flames, like candles, away from
flammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if
they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert
you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and
an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other reliable
means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
IMPORTANT! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and
“Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit
monitors the air, and when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it alarms.
It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads. This unit can
ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained
and located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear
it, as described in this manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame.
It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide
different types of protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every
level of your home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or
separate sleeping area. See “Recommended Locations For Smoke
Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can’t Do
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to
escape. It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor.
See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
Check Your Local Building Codes
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family
home. It alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses,
apartment buildings, hotels or motels. See “Special Compliance
Considerations”
for details.
•This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is recom-
mended that you install special units which use devices like
flashing strobe lights to alert hearing impaired residents.
• Do not connect this unit to any other alarm or auxiliary device.
It is a single-station unit that cannot be linked to other devices.
Connecting anything else to this unit may prevent it from working
properly.
•Unit will not operate without battery power. The Smoke Alarm
cannot work until you install the battery in the correct position
(Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-”).
• This Smoke Alarm has a battery guard which resists closing
unless a battery is installed. This warns you the unit will not
operate without a battery.
• Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. Air cur-
rents around junction boxes can prevent smoke from reaching
the sensing chambers and prevent the unit from alarming. Only
AC powered units are intended for installation over junction
boxes.
• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding.
It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at
close range may harm your hearing.
•
Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the
sensing chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly.
SMOKE AND FIRE* ALARMS
USER’S MANUAL

WEEKLY TESTING
• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might
accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The
built-in test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as
required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
• If the Alarm ever fails to test properly, replace it immediately.
Products under warranty may be returned to the manufacturer
for replacement. See “Limited Warranty” for details.
DO NOT stand close to the alarm when the horn is sounding.
Exposure at close range may be harmful to your hearing. When test-
ing, step away when horn starts sounding.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working
properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this
Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the cover of the unit until
the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a few seconds after
you release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiv-
ing power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
During testing you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps,
pause, 3 beeps, pause.
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HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS!
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
•If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you
of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate
attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result
in injury or death.
• Never remove the batteries from a battery operated Smoke Alarm
to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.).
Removing batteries disables the alarm so it cannot sense smoke,
and removes your protection. Instead open a window or fan the
smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.
•If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
This unit has been designed to be as maintenance free as possible, but
there are a few simple things you must do to keep it working properly.
Use only the replacement batteries listed below. The unit may not
operate properly with other batteries. Never use rechargeable
batteries since they may not provide a constant charge.
•Test it at least once a week.
•Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the
outside of the Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft
brush attachment. Test the Smoke Alarm. Never use water, cleaners
or solvents since they may damage the unit.
• If the Smoke Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust
and/or grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms,
replace the unit immediately.
•Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See
“Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” for details.
• When the battery becomes weak, the Smoke Alarm unit will “chirp”
about once a minute (the low battery warning). This low battery warn-
ing should last 7 days, but you should replace the battery immediately
to continue your protection.
Choosing a replacement battery:
Your Smoke Alarm requires one standard 9V battery. The following
batteries are acceptable as replacements: Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra)
#MX1604; Eveready (Energizer) #522. You may also use a Lithium battery
like the Ultralife U9VL-J for longer service life between battery changes.
1. “OPEN HERE” tab
2. Cover hinge
3. Test button
6. Tighten the screws (provided) into the screw anchors, then loosen
them two turns.
7. Fit the Smoke Alarm over the screw heads as shown. Close cover.
8. If the Smoke Alarm cover does not line up the way you want it, rotate
the base and re-tighten the screws.
9. Activate the battery. With the cover open, remove and reinstall the
battery so the terminals on the battery match the terminals on the
Smoke Alarm. Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-.” Push the battery in until
it snaps in securely and cannot be shaken loose.
If the battery is not snapped in completely, the unit cannot receive
battery power. The Smoke Alarm may beep briefly when you install
the battery—this is normal.
10. Close the cover all the way.
11. Test the Smoke Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.”
1. Hold base firmly and pull up on cover tab marked “OPEN HERE.” This
will open the hinged cover. The cover may unsnap from the base if
it's opened too far. This will not damage the unit—the cover hinge
snaps back into place easily.
2. Hold the Smoke Alarm base against the ceiling (or wall) and make a
mark at the center of each of the mounting slots with a pencil.
3. Put the unit where it won’t get covered with dust when you drill the
mounting holes.
4. Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through each pencil mark.
5. Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into
the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary,
until they are flush with the ceiling or wall.
1. “Open Here” ∆
2. Test button
3. Smoke Alarm base
4. “No Battery” tab
5A. Mounting slots
5B. Mounting slots
6. Install 9V battery here
This unit is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, or on the wall if necessary.
Tools you will need:
• Pencil • Drill with 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit
• Hammer • Standard flathead screwdriver
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to
get dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them.
If a door is cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors
and windows closed, unless you must escape through them.
•Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp).
Take short, shallow breaths.
•Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home,
and do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside.
Give your address, then your name.
•Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
Alarms have various limitations. See "Limitations of Smoke Alarms"
for details.
These batteries are available at many local retail stores.
Actual service life depends on the Smoke Alarm and the environment
in which it is installed. All the batteries specified above are acceptable
replacement batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s
suggested battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once
the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery warning”).
REGULAR MAINTENANCE, Continued

RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke
Alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. In new
construction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered and interconnected.
See “Agency Placement Recommendations” for details. For additional
coverage, it is recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm in all rooms,
halls, storage areas, finished attics, and basements, where temperatures
normally remain between 40˚F (4˚C) and 100˚F (38˚C). Make sure no door
or other obstruction could keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
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IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak
batteries, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or
installation in an improper location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described
in “Regular Maintenance,” and install a fresh battery, then test the Smoke
Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if
the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
•If you hear a “chirp” once a minute, replace the battery.
• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those
caused by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
•If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or
relocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
•If the alarm does not sound during testing, try installing a new
battery, and make sure it is snapped in securely.
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under
warranty, please see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” below.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
LIMITED WARRANTY
BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of Family Gard®brand products
warrants that for a period of three years from the date of purchase, this
product will be free from defects in material and workmanship. BRK, at its
option, will repair or replace this product or any component of the product
found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement will be made
with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the product is no
longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of equal
or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of
initial retail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt.
Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance. BRK dealers,
service centers, or retail stores selling BRK products do not have the right to
alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions of this warranty.
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting from
any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on improper
voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions, disassembly,
repair or alteration by anyone other than BRK or an authorized service center.
Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurri-
canes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with this unit.
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages caused
by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the extent pro-
hibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness
for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of the above
warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusion may not
apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer.
In order to obtain warranty service, contact the Consumer Affairs Division
at 1-800-323-9005, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Central Standard Time, Monday
through Friday. To assist us in serving you, please have the model number
and date of purchase available when calling. For Warranty Service
return to: BRK Brands, Inc., 25 Spur Drive, El Paso, TX 79906
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or
oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose
with respect to battery.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS, Continued
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly or
completely closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple
sleeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
long (12 meters), install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at bottom of the
basement stairway.
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to
state and from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department for
current requirements in your area. It is recommended AC or AC/DC
units be interconnected for added protection.
INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN MOBILE HOMES & RVS
For minimum security install one Smoke Alarm as close to each sleeping area
as possible. For more security, put one unit in each room. Many older mobile
homes (especially those built before 1978) have little or no insulation. If your
mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are unsure of the amount of insula-
tion, it is important to install units on inside walls only. Smoke Alarms should
be installed where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4˚ C) and
100˚ F (38˚ C). WARNING: Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been
in storage, before every trip, and once a week while in use. Failure to test
units used in RVs as described may remove your protection.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 (National Fire Code) Chapter 11
“For your information, the National Fire Protection Association's Standard
72, reads as follows:”
“11.5.1 One- and Two-Family Dwelling Units.”
“11.5.1.1 Smoke Detection. Where required by applicable laws, codes, or
standards for the specified occupancy, approved single- and multiple-
station Smoke Alarms shall be installed as follows: (1) In all sleeping
rooms Exception: Smoke Alarms shall not be required in sleeping rooms
in existing one- and two-family dwelling units. (2) Outside of each separate
sleeping area, in immediate vicinity of the sleeping rooms. (3) On each
level of the dwelling unit, including basements Exception: In existing
one- and two family dwelling units, approved Smoke Alarms powered by
batteries are permitted.”
“A.11.8.3 Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable? The required number of
Smoke Alarms might not provide reliable early warning protection for
those areas separated by a door from the areas protected by the required
Smoke Alarms. For this reason, it is recommended that the householder
consider the use of additional Smoke Alarms for those areas for increased
protection. The additional areas include the basement, bedrooms, dining
room, furnace room, utility room, and hallways not protected by the
required Smoke Alarms. The installation of Smoke Alarms in kitchens,
attics (finished or unfinished), or garages is not normally recommended,
as these locations occasionally experience conditions that can result in
improper operation.”
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection
equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke
Alarm installed in each separate sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside
bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living rooms, dining rooms,
bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility
and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, it is recommended you AVOID installing
Smoke Alarms in these areas:
• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles
form when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated
kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet
(6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace,
water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot (6
meter) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller homes,
for example – it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far
from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement recom-
mendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable dis-
tance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce “unwanted” alarms.
Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm is placed directly next
to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into
the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with
showers. Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers,
saunas, dishwashers, etc.
•Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4˚ C) or above
100˚ F (38˚ C), including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches,
or unfinished attics or basements.
Continued...

LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS, Continued
•In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm
directly over the stove or range. Keep laundry room Smoke Alarms free
of dust or lint.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can
blow smoke away from the unit, preventing it from reaching the sensing
chamber.
•In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing
chamber and cause unwanted alarms.
•Less than 12 inches (305mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical
“noise” can interfere with the sensor.
•In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from
reaching the Smoke Alarm.
Avoiding Dead Air Spaces
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.
To avoid dead air spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.
On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the center of the ceiling as
possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke Alarm at least 4 inches
(102 mm) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of Smoke
Alarms should be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305
mm) from the wall/ceiling line, below typical “dead air” spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install the first Smoke Alarm
within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally.
Additional Smoke Alarms may be required depending on the length, angle,
etc. of the ceiling's slope. Refer to NFPA 72 for details on requirements for
sloped or peaked ceilings.
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ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
Battery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when
electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
Units are easy to install, and do not require professional installation.
AC powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses
smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails.
AC with battery (DC) back-up: will operate if electricity fails, provided the
batteries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and AC/DC units must be
installed by a qualified electrician.
Smoke Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup
power systems: AC powered Smoke Alarms should only be operated
with true or pure sine wave inverters. Operating this Smoke Alarm with
most battery-powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or
square wave or “quasi sine wave” inverters will damage the Alarm.
If you are not sure about your inverter or UPS type, please consult with
the manufacturer to verify.
Smoke Alarms for the hearing impaired: Special purpose Smoke Alarms
should be installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visual alarm
and an audible alarm horn, and meet the requirements of the Americans
With Disabilities Act. Can be interconnected so if one unit senses smoke,
all units alarm.
Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the
combination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.
All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if
located, installed and cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if
smoke reaches them. If you are unsure which type of Smoke Alarm to
install, refer to Chapter 2 of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Standard 72 (National Fire Alarm Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code).
National Fire Protection Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA
02269-9101. Local building codes may also require specific units in new
construction or in different areas of the home.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS, Continued
2. Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence: Apartment building, con-
dominium. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual apartments or
condos, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire
detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches.
Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warn-
ing to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
3. Institutions: Hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care facilities.
This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual patient sleeping/resident
rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire
detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches.
Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warn-
ing to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
4. Hotels and Motels: Also boarding houses and dormitories. This Smoke
Alarm is suitable for use inside individual sleeping/resident rooms, provided
a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection
requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using
this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to
all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from
home fires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can
only work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if
smoke reaches them. They are not foolproof.
Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan
at least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to
grandparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice
before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or
others do not readily waken to the sound of the Smoke Alarm, or if there
are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that
someone is assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an
emergency. It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family
members are sleeping in order to determine their response to the sound
of the Smoke Alarm while sleeping and to determine whether they may
need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power.Battery operated units can-
not work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong
type of batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC
units cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or
circuit breaker, failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical
fire that burns the electrical wires, etc.). If you are concerned about the
limitations of battery or AC power, install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the
Alarms. Smoke from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other
side of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the
alarm. That is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or
sleeping area—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed
at night—and in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the
dwelling. For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not
detect smoke from a basement fire until the fire spreads. This may not give
you enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum
protection is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on
every level of your dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units
may not provide as much protection as interconnected units, especially if
the fire starts in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend installing
interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up (see “About Smoke
Alarms”) or professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke,
all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-
alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit
meets or exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is
located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently con-
sumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo,
TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing
impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual
and audible alarms, should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself
causes damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may
not reach the unit immediately. Examples of this include persons
smoking in bed, children playing with matches, or fires caused by
violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke
Alarms are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time.
You must test the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection. Smoke
Alarms cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for
property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immedi-
ately if it is not operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke
Alarm after 10 years from date of purchase. Write the purchase date on
the space provided on back of unit.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detec-
tion systems in places housing many people—like apartment buildings,
condominiums, hotels, motels, dormitories, hospitals, long-term health care
facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind—
even if they were once single-family homes. It is not a suitable substitute
for complete fire detection systems in warehouses, industrial facilities,
commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-residential buildings which
require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building
codes in your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional
protection in these facilities.
The following information applies to all four building types below:
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC
powered Smoke Alarms only. In existing construction, AC, AC/DC, or DC
powered Smoke Alarms can be used as specified by local building codes.
Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) ,
local building codes, or consult your Fire Department for detailed fire
protection requirements in buildings not defined as “households.”
1. Single-Family Residence: Single family home, townhouse. It is recom-
mended Smoke Alarms be installed on every level of the home, in every
bedroom, and in each bedroom hallway.
Family Gard®is a registered trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.
Printed in Mexico M08-0087-003 A02/07