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 cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries are miss- ing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batter- ies are used, or if the batteries are not installed cor- rectly. 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 con- cerned about the limitations of battery or AC power, install both types of units.

Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach them. 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 recom- mended 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 “Other Features Of 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 UL standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air con- ditioner 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 imme- diately. 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 immediately 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.

4120 AC, 4120SB specifications

The BRK Electronics 4120SB and 4120AC are advanced smoke alarms designed to enhance safety in residential and commercial settings. These alarm models integrate innovative technologies and features that provide reliable performance and peace of mind to users.

The 4120SB model is a battery-operated smoke alarm, making it ideal for applications where hardwired alarms may not be feasible. Utilizing a photoelectric sensor, it is designed to detect smoldering fires, which often produce dense smoke without high flames. This increases the likelihood of early detection, allowing occupants crucial time to evacuate safely. On the other hand, the 4120AC is a hardwired option that connects directly to the building’s electrical system, ensuring uninterrupted power supply while incorporating a battery backup. This guarantees continuous operation, even during power outages.

Both models are equipped with a loud 85-decibel alarm, ensuring that residents are alerted promptly in case of smoke detection. The devices also feature a test/silence button, allowing users to easily test the functionality of the alarm or silence it in the event of a false alarm caused by cooking fumes.

Safety is further enhanced by the incorporation of a Tamper-resistant feature that prevents unauthorized removal of the alarm from its mounted location. The alarm also includes a LED indicator that provides a visual cue of the unit’s operational status. When the unit is powered on and functioning correctly, the green LED will blink periodically. In contrast, a continuous red LED indicates an active alarm condition.

Both the 4120SB and 4120AC are designed for user-friendly installation. The units come with clear instructions and mounting hardware, allowing homeowners and professionals to easily install them in their desired locations. The compact design ensures that they can fit seamlessly into a variety of interiors.

Overall, the BRK Electronics 4120SB and 4120AC represent robust solutions for smoke detection. Their integration of advanced photoelectric technology, user-friendly features, and essential safety mechanisms make them essential components of any fire safety strategy, ensuring that homes and businesses are better protected against the threat of fire. Investing in these smoke alarms not only meets safety regulations but also fosters a proactive approach to fire safety that can save lives.