What are Photoelectric Smoke Alarms?
Photoelectric smoke alarms are smoke alarms which use changes in a beam of light as an indicator of a fire. These sensitive smoke alarms are ideal for detecting smoldering fires which may burn slowly at low temperatures, such as mattress and furniture fires, or fires lurking underneath rugs and in drapes. A photoelectric sensor is also included in dual sensor smoke alarms, special smoke alarms which are designed to react to multiple types of fires. Many hardware stores sell photoelectric smoke alarms, and some fire safety organizations and fire departments distribute them for free as a public service. Any type of smoke alarm should be checked at least twice a year to ensure that it is working properly. It is also a good idea to change the batteries when you check your smoke alarm; many people check their smoke alarms when the time changes, as this biannual event already requires the adjustment of other household electronics. If you aren’t sure about how to check your smoke alarm, check
