ABSTRACT
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is aware of research indicating that sleeping children do not always wake up when a smoke alarm activates. The NFPA reaffirms the value of the smoke alarms already available to protect people from home fire deaths and voice its concern about the number of US households without these early warning devices. The NFPA emphasizes the need to continue planning and practicing home fire escape plans and to make sure everyone in a home can be awakened by the sound of the smoke alarm. It suggests practicing the escape plan during which the smoke alarm is activated so all family members know its sound. Smoke detectors must be installed in accordance with and meet the requirements of the NFPA Standards 74 or its successor standards. If a hearing-impaired person is occupying the dwelling unit, the smoke detectors must have an alarm system designed for hearing-impaired persons as specified in NFPA 74.
