Download Print this page
First Alert 100S User Manual
First Alert 100S User Manual

First Alert 100S User Manual

Ac powered ionization smoke alarm for the hearing impaired

Advertisement

Quick Links

USER'S MANUAL
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box to a 4-inch (10 cm) diagonal size, on ether the ceiling or wall (if allowed
by local codes). Read "Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms" and "Locations to Avoid For Smoke Alarms" before you begin installation.
Tools you will need: Standard Flathead screwdriver.
AC POWERED
IONIZATION SMOKE ALARM
FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED
Input: 120V AC 60Hz,
.053 A Standby, .059 A Alarm
Strobe: 177 candela minimum
The Mounting Bracket
Installs onto the junction box.
It has a variety of screw slots to fit
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
most boxes. If a junction box is
not already in place, install one
This user's manual contains important information about your Smoke
Alarm's operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by
using standard #12 or #14 gauge
others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
copper wire. To remove the
mounting bracket from the Smoke
Alarm base, hold the Smoke Alarm
LISTED TO
base firmly and twist mounting
Printed in Mexico
UL 217
bracket counterclockwise.
M08-0142-001 K1 08/07
Models 100S, SA100B
The Power Connector
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing First Alert
®
for your hearing impaired Smoke
Alarm with Strobe Light needs. You have purchased a state of the art
Smoke Alarm with Integrated Strobe Light designed to provide hearing
impaired individuals with a visual warning of a fire. Please take the time
to read this manual and make the Smoke Alarm with Integrated Strobe
Light an integral part of your family's safety plan.
Key Features of the 100S Smoke Alarm with Integrated Strobe Light:
177 Candela Xenon Light: Powerful 177 candela xenon strobe light
provides effective visual warning to awaken hearing impaired residents.
1 Hz Flash Rate: 60 flashes per minute meets ADA, ANSI 117.1,
NFPA 72, and UL 1971 requirements for visual signaling devices.
Smoke Alarm: Integrated Dual Ionization smoke alarm.
The basic installation of this Smoke Alarm is the similar whether you
Meets ADA Requirements: Meets the requirements of the Americans
want to install one Smoke Alarm, or interconnect more than one
with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Smoke Alarm. If you are interconnecting more than one Smoke
© 2007 BRK Brands, Inc., a Jarden Corporation company (NYSE: JAH)
Alarm, you MUST read "Special Requirements For Interconnected
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
All rights reserved.
Smoke Alarms" below before you begin installation.
Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005 • www.brkelectronics.com • www.firstalert.com
All BRK
®
and First Alert
®
Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD! Turn off power before starting
requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles
installation!
of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are
1. Remove the mounting bracket from the base. Install the mounting
produced in all fires.
bracket to the junction box
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric
technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced
2. Set the foam gasket against the back of the Smoke Alarm.
in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible
3. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to the household
materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include
wiring.
paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced
in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for
Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral
wire in the junction box.
hours before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include
cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire
in the junction box.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on
each level and in every bedroom of your home.
Tuck the orange wire inside the junction box. It is used for
interconnect only.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking
Strip off about 1/2" (12 mm) of the plastic coating on the orange
materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters
wire on the power connector.
away from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers;
Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral
4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don't overload elec-
wire in the junction box.
trical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys
Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire
grease- and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove
in the junction box.
unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open flames, like candles,
away from flammable materials; 8) Don't let rubbish accumulate.
Connect the orange wire on the power connector to the inter-
connect wire in the junction box. Repeat for each unit you are
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately
interconnecting. Never connect the hot or neutral wires in the
if they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot
junction box to the orange interconnect wire.
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
4. Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are
blocked.
5. Line up the alignment tab on the base with the alignment tab on
the mounting bracket. Turn the Smoke Alarm clockwise (right)

BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM

until you hear the unit snap into place.
IMPORTANT! Read "Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms" and
6. Check all connections.
"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
Improper wiring of the power connector or the wiring leading to
the power connector will cause damage to the Alarm and may
unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed,
lead to a non-functioning Alarm.
maintained and located where smoke can reach it, and where all resi-
dents can hear it, as described in this manual. This unit will not sense
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.
If you are only installing one Smoke Alarm, restore power
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
to the junction box.
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide
different types of protection. See "About Smoke Alarms" for details.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
If you are interconnecting multiple Smoke Alarms, repeat
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on
steps 1-6 for each Smoke Alarm in the series. When you
are finished, restore power to the junction box.
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.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD! Do not restore power until all
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can't Do
smoke alarms are completely installed. Restoring power before
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time
installation is complete may result in serious electrical shock,
to escape. It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the
injury or death.
sensor. See "Limitations of Smoke Alarms" for details.
Check Your Local Building Codes
7. Make sure the Smoke Alarm is receiving AC power. Under normal
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family
operation, the green power indicator light will shine continuously.
home. It alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses,
If the power indicator light does not light, TURN OFF POWER TO
apartment buildings, hotels or motels. See "Special Compliance
THE JUNCTION BOX and recheck all connections. If all connec-
tions are correct and the power indicator still does not light when
Considerations" for details.
you restore the power, the unit should be replaced immediately.
8. Test the Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off power to the area where
cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to
you will install this Smoke Alarm at the circuit breaker or fuse box
alarm for a few seconds after you release the button). During
before beginning installation. Failure to turn off the power before
testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps,
installation may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
pause, 3 beeps, pause. In an interconnected series, you must
test each Smoke Alarm individually.
• Installation of this Smoke Alarm must conform to the
electrical codes in your area; Article 760 of NFPA 70 (NEC),
WEEKLY TESTING
NFPA 72, NFPA 101; SBC (SBCCI); UBC (ICBO); NBC (BOCA);
OTFDC (CABO), and any other local or building codes that
may apply. Wiring and installation must be performed by a
• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this Smoke
licensed electrician. Failure to follow these guidelines may
Alarm. You might accidentally damage or set fire it unit or to
result in injury or property damage.
your home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the
• This Smoke Alarm must be powered by a 24-hour, 120VAC
Smoke Alarm's operation as required by Underwriters
60Hz circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned off by a
Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
switch, dimmer, or ground fault circuit interrupter. Failure to
• Do not look directly at or touch the lens while the strobe light
connect this Smoke Alarm to a 24-hour circuit may prevent it
is flashing. Doing so can hurt your eyes or burn your fingers.
from providing constant protection.
If the strobe light does not flash during testing, the Smoke
• It is possible an electrical fire could occur on the circuit
Alarm should be replaced.
powering this Smoke Alarm. If this happened, power to the
unit could be cut off and it may fail to alarm. Some safety
experts recommend wiring warning devices like this unit on
Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding.
separate circuits from other appliances, since these circuits
It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at
are not as likely to be overloaded. Other safety experts
close range may harm your hearing.
recommend wiring these units on the same circuits as
appliances so it is more readily apparent if the circuit fails.
It is important to test this Smoke Alarm every week to make sure it
Whichever circuit you choose, it is recommended you also
is working properly. Using the test button is the recommended way
install battery powered units as back-ups in case of fire on
to test this Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the cover
the circuit powering the AC powered units.
until the alarm sounds (it may continue alarming briefly after you release
the button). If the Smoke Alarm does not sound make sure it is receiving
• Never disconnect the power from an AC powered Smoke
power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
Alarm to stop an unwanted alarm. Doing so will disable
During testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps,
the unit and remove your protection. In the case of a true
unwanted alarm open a window or fan the smoke away from
pause, 3 beeps, pause.
the unit. The alarm will reset automatically when it returns to
The strobe light should flash every time you test the Smoke Alarm.
normal operation. Never remove the batteries from a battery
operated Smoke Alarm to stop an unwanted alarm (caused
by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan the
When testing Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series, you must test
smoke away. The Smoke Alarm will reset automatically.
each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
The strobe lights on all units should flash as each individual Smoke Alarm
is tested.
• Connect this Smoke Alarm ONLY to other compatible units.
See "How To Install This Smoke Alarm" for details. Do not
connect it to any other type of alarm or auxiliary device.
Connecting anything else to this unit may damage it or
prevent it from operating properly.
1

HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM

THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM
The Foam Gasket
The foam gasket prevents air
currents from coming through
the junction box and blowing
smoke away from the sensor.
It must be installed to comply
with UL standards. When
installing the foam gasket, line
up the cut-outs with the power
input block on the Smoke Alarm.
The power connector plugs into a power input block
on the Smoke Alarm and supplies it AC power.
•Black wire is "hot."
•White wire is neutral.
•Orange wire is used for interconnect.
Make sure the Alarm is not receiving excessively
If you need to remove the power connector, turn
noisy power. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances
POWER OFF first. To remove the power connector, insert
on the same circuit, power from a generator or solar power, light
a flat screwdriver blade between the power connector and
dimmer on the same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting.
the security tab inside the power input block. Gently pry
Excessively noisy power may cause damage to your Alarm.
back the tab and pull the connector free.
FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS
If any Smoke Alarm does not alarm, TURN OFF POWER and recheck
connections. If any Smoke Alarm still does not alarm when you test it
after restoring power, replace it immediately.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTED SMOKE ALARMS
• Failure to meet any of the requirements for interconnecting
Smoke Alarms could damage the units, and cause them to
malfunction, removing your protection.
• AC and AC/DC Smoke Alarms can be interconnected. Under
AC power, all units will alarm when one senses smoke. When
power is interrupted, only the AC/DC units in the series will
continue to send and receive signals. AC powered Smoke
Alarms will not operate.
Interconnected units can provide earlier warning of fire than stand-alone
units, especially if a fire starts in a remote area of the home. If any Smoke
Alarm in the series senses smoke, all units will alarm. This Smoke Alarm
can be interconnected with First Alert
SA4121B, SA100B, SC9120B and BRK Electronics
Models 100S, 4120 series, 9120 series, 7010 series; BRK Electronics
Heat Alarm Models HD6135F, HD6135FB; Smoke/CO Alarm Model
SC6120B.
Interconnect units within a single family residence only. Otherwise all
households will experience unwanted alarms when you test any unit
in the series. Interconnected units will only work if they are wired to
compatible units and all requirements are met.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the following
requirements:
A maximum of 18 units total may be interconnected
(Maximum of 12 Smoke Alarms).
The same fuse or circuit breaker must power all interconnected
Smoke Alarms.
The total length of wire interconnecting the units should be less
than 1000 feet (305 meters). The interconnect wire should be #18
gauge or larger, rated at least 300V. If an interconnect wire is not
already part of your household wiring, you will need to install one.
This type of wire is commonly available at Hardware and Electrical
Supply stores.
All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and Article 760
of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). Refer to NFPA 72 and/or
your local building code for further connection requirements.
}
A. Unswitched 120VAC
60 Hz source
1. Smoke Alarm
2. Ceiling or Wall
3. Power Connector
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.
• Test it at least once a week.
• Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum off
any dust using your household vacuum's soft brush attachment,
and test the Smoke Alarm after cleaning. 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.
• If the strobe light is loose or broken, the entire unit should be
replaced immediately. Never remove the strobe light lens for
any reason. Doing so can permanently damage the unit and
will void your warranty.
• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the
sensing chamber and prevent the unit from operating properly.

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 and the strobe light will be flashing.
• 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. If the unit alarms and you
are not absolutely certain of the source of the smoke, get
everyone out of the house immediately.
2
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM, Continued
• Never disconnect the AC power to quiet an unwanted alarm.
Disconnecting the power disables the alarm so it cannot
sense smoke. This will remove your protection. Instead open
a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will
reset automatically
• ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to disconnect the
Parts of the Smoke Alarm
power connector from the unit when the power is on may result
in electrical shock, serious injury or death.
1
Mounting slot and screw (1 of 2)
2
Junction box
When an interconnected system of AC powered units is in alarm, the
3
Mounting bracket
alarm indicator light on the unit(s) that triggered the alarm will blink
rapidly. It will remain OFF on any remaining units.
4
Mounting Bracket Alignment Arrow
If the unit alarms and you are not absolutely certain of the source of the
5
Mounting slot and screw (1 of 2)
smoke, get everyone out of the house immediately. Stay calm and follow
your family escape plan. Stay as low to the ground as possible, and
6
Wire strip gauge
cover your mouth with a damp cloth. Never open a door before testing
7
Neutral (white) AC wire
it to see if it is hot. Call the Fire Department from outside, and give
them your address then name. Read "What To Do In Case Of Fire" for
8
Hot (black) AC wire
more information.
9
Interconnect wire
If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a
fire—cooking smoke or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open
10 Foam gasket
a nearby window or door and fan the smoke away from the unit. This
will silence the alarm, and once the smoke clears the unit will reset
11 Alignment Tab On Alarm
automatically.
12 Turn to attach to bracket
13 Turn to remove from bracket
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 wet).
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.

IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM

Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of a build-up of dirt,
dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or installation in an improper
location. Alarms with battery back-up may not work because of dead,
missing or weak batteries. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in
"Regular Maintenance"—and install a fresh battery if unit has battery
back-up—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 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
®
Smoke Alarm Models SA4120,
relocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
®
Smoke Alarm
If the alarm does not sound during testing, make sure it is
®
receiving AC power from the household current.
If the strobe light lens is loose or broken, the entire unit should be
replaced immediately. Never remove the strobe light lens for any
reason. Doing so can permanently damage the unit and will void
your warranty.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or
AC/DC Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit
breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the battery from Smoke Alarms
with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the test button for
5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under
warranty, please see "How to Obtain Warranty Service" in the Limited
Warranty below.

LIMITED WARRANTY

BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of BRK
brand products, warrants that for a period of ten 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.
B. To additional units; Maximum = 18 total
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting
(Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
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
4. Wire Nut
7. Interconnect Wire
authorized service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of
5. Junction Box
8. Hot Wire (Blk)
God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that
6. Neutral Wire (Wht)
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 prohibited 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
RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT FOR
HEARING IMPAIRED SMOKE ALARMS
WITH INTEGRATED STROBE LIGHT
Smoke Alarms with Integrated Strobe lights intended for the hearing
impaired should be located in the bedroom where a hearing impaired
person sleeps. Additional alarms should be located in any room where
a hearing impaired person may be present and need to be notified of a
smoke danger.
According to NFPA 72, for wall mounting, a 177 candela strobe light
must be used in a sleeping area when mounting height of lens is less
than 24 inches (61 cm) from the ceiling. A Smoke Alarm with an
integrated Strobe light must be placed in accordance with the Smoke
Alarm placement recommendations.
For Wall Mounting the alarm should be between 4 inches and 12 inches
(102 mm and 305 mm) from ceiling to avoid the "dead air space". For
Ceiling Mounting the alarm should be placed at least 4 inches (102 mm)
from wall or corner (see "Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms" below).
In addition, for wall or ceiling mounting, the unit must be located within
16 linear feet (4.8 meters) from top of lens to the pillow (See diagram).
3
4
RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT
STROBE LIGHT OUTPUT FOR WALL & CEILING
MOUNTING
The intensity of the strobe light gradually lessens as the angle increases.
In other words, the light is brightest directly in front of the strobe light
and is progressively less bright to either side. As required by
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), the following illustrations show how
the strobe light is dispersed. Use them to help you choose where to
locate units for the hearing impaired.
Angle
Percent
(In Degrees)
Light Intensity
LIGHT
CEILING
0
100
90
90
5-25
90
30-45
75
WALL
50
55
55
45
60
40
45
45
65
35
70
35
LIGHT
75
30
0
80
30
FIGURE 1: Light Output
85
25
for Ceiling Mount
90
25
FIGURE 2: Light Output
for Wall Mount
PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPSY AND STROBE FLASH RATES
Individuals who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy might have
an increased probability for seizures with multiple strobe lights flashing
asynchronously. The frequency or speed of flashing light that is most
likely to cause seizures varies from person to person. Generally, flashing
lights most likely to trigger seizures are between the frequency of 5 to
30 flashes per second (Hertz). This strobe light flashes at about 1 flash
per second.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, most workplaces and places
serving the public, including theaters, restaurants, and recreation areas,
are required to have fire alarms, which flash as well as ring so that
people who cannot hear or cannot hear well will know that there is an
emergency.
INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN MOBILE HOMES
For minimum security install one Smoke Alarm as close to each sleep-
ing area as possible. For more security, put one 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 insulation, 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).
This equipment should be installed in accordance with NFPA (National
Fire Protection Association) 72 and 101. National Fire Protection
Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Additional
local building and regulatory codes may apply in your area. Always
check compliance requirements before beginning any installation.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 (National Fire Code)
Smoke Alarms shall be installed in each separate sleeping room, out-
side each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and
on each additional story of the family living unit, including basements
and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
In new construction, Alarms shall be so arranged that operation of any
one Alarm shall cause the operation of all Alarms within the dwelling.
Smoke Detection-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 base-
ment, bedrooms, dining room, furnace room, utility room, and hallways
not protected by the required Smoke Alarms. The installation of Smoke
®
brand and First Alert
®
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 detec-
tion 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 m)
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 recommenda-
tions are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable distance
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.
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.
5

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.
However, they do not provide interconnected functionality.
AC powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit
senses smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails.
AC Smoke Alarms must be installed by a qualified electrician.
AC/DC powered Smoke Alarms: (AC with battery back-up): Can be
interconnected so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. They will
operate if electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly
installed. AC/DC Smoke Alarms must be installed by a qualified electrician.
Wireless Interconnected Alarms: Offer the same interconnected
functionality as with hardwired alarms, without wires. Units are easy
to install and do not require professional installation. They provide
protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh
and correctly installed.
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
90
Alarms should be installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visu-
al alarm and an audible alarm horn, and meet the requirements of the
Americans With Disabilities Act. These units can be interconnected so if
45
one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity
fails. Units must be installed by a qualified electrician. This Smoke
Alarm is an AC powered unit that has an 85 decibel alarm and a
177 candela strobe light, which flashes rapidly when the unit is in
alarm. This unit is specially designed to wake hearing impaired
0
persons. It features an 85 dB alarm plus a brilliant 177 candela
strobe light that flashes rapidly when the unit senses smoke.
Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the
combination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.
45
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
90
smoke reaches them. If you are unsure which type of unit to install, refer
to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 (National Fire Alarm
Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code). National Fire Protection
Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Also check
your local building codes which may also require specific units in new
construction or in different areas of the home.

SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS

This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire
detection 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 101 (Life Safety Code) or NFPA 72
(National Fire Alarm 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
recommended Smoke Alarms be installed on every level of the home,
in every bedroom, and in each bedroom hallway.
2. Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence: Apartment building,
condominium. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual apart-
ments 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 warning 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 sleep-
ing/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.
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 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
home. 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 home. Even with a unit on every
floor, stand-alone units may not provide as much protection as intercon-
nected 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
consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the alarm is drowned out by noise from
stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hear-
ing 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
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.
BRK
®
is a registered trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.
First Alert
®
is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust.
Printed in Mexico M08-0142-001 K1 08/07
6

Advertisement

loading

This manual is also suitable for:

Sa100b