Having the proper safety fixtures installed and maintained in your home is one of the most important things you can do to prevent injuries and accidents. Safety fixtures such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and anti-scald devices provide an extra layer of protection that could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. Taking the time to assess potential hazards in your living space, choosing high-quality safety products, and understanding how to use and test these devices regularly will help ensure your home is as safe as possible. This guide covers the key types of safety fixtures recommended for every home and how to utilize them properly.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are one of the most vital safety fixtures for any home. Properly functioning smoke detectors can alert you to a fire in the early stages, giving you precious time to evacuate. There are two main types of smoke detectors:Ionization smoke detectors are the most common and affordable option. They contain a small amount of radioactive material that reacts when smoke particles enter the chamber. This triggers the loud alarm to sound. Ionization detectors are better at identifying fast, flaming fires.Photoelectric smoke detectors use a beam of light and a sensor instead of radiation. They detect smoldering, smoky fires faster than ionization models. Photoelectric models cost a little more but provide more accurate alerts.Experts recommend installing interconnected smoke detectors on every level of the home and inside every bedroom for the best protection. Interconnected models wirelessly communicate with each other, so when one detects smoke and sounds an alarm, all the detectors in the system will sound. This gives maximum warning to occupants no matter where in the home the fire originates.

Smoke Detector Placement Guidelines

Smoke detector placement guidelines include:

  • On the ceiling or high up on walls in each bedroom
  • Outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
  • Avoid installing near vents, windows, or excess humidity
  • Do not disable smoke detectors in kitchens or bathrooms

The batteries in smoke detectors should be replaced every 6 months to 1 year, and the entire unit replaced every 8-10 years. Test detectors monthly by pressing the test button to ensure they are still functional.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, toxic gas that is a byproduct of combustion from sources like furnaces, stoves, grills, fireplaces, and vehicles. Exposure to high levels of CO can cause flu-like symptoms, dizziness, confusion, unconsciousness, and even death.Installing CO detectors on every floor is critical, as carbon monoxide is a silent killer with no visible signs or smell. CO detectors can be purchased as battery-powered or plug-in models.Plug-in detectors are slightly more expensive but ensure constant power, while battery-powered models should have batteries replaced every 6 months. Ideally, carbon monoxide detectors should be located on every level of the home, near every sleeping area, and no further than 15 feet from each fuel-burning appliance. It is important to test CO detectors monthly by pressing the test button. Replace plug-in models every 5 years and battery-powered units every 5-7 years. Knowing the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning along with having functioning detectors properly installed can save lives by detecting dangerous CO levels before they become deadly.

Fire Extinguishers

Having fire extinguishers strategically located throughout the home provides an accessible way to attempt putting out small fires before they grow out of control. Experts recommend keeping at least one fire extinguisher on every floor.There are several types of fire extinguishers defined by the kind of fire they are designed to fight: Class A extinguishers contain pressurized water or foam and are for ordinary combustibles like paper, wood, fabric, trash, and plastics; Class B extinguishers have dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide and are made for flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil, and paint; Class C extinguishers contain non-conductive agents like dry chemicals or carbon dioxide and are for fires involving appliances, tools, or other electrical equipment; and Class ABC extinguishers work on all three classes of fire and are a good all-purpose choice for home use.Fire extinguishers also display a number rating (such as 1-A:10-B:C) that indicates the size of fire it can handle. For home use, choose an ABC type with a rating of at least 2-A:10-B:C. Install extinguishers in kitchens, garages, bathrooms, and basements. Check pressure gauges or test buttons monthly to ensure they function properly and have them professionally serviced every year. Use a fire extinguisher only after ensuring everyone has safely evacuated the home and the fire department has been called. Aim at the base of flames and sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Handrails and Guardrails

Proper handrails and guardrails prevent dangerous falls on stairways, elevated landings, porches, balconies, and decks. Having grippable handrails on both sides of every staircase is vital, especially for seniors and children. The best practice for handrails includes extending the full length of the stairs, being mounted between 34-38 inches tall, having an outside diameter of 1 1/4 - 2 inches to allow for easy gripping, being returned or curved at the ends for safety, and being installed securely into wall studs or strong backing.For elevated areas like porches, decks, and balconies, guardrails act as protective barriers. Guardrails should completely enclose open sides of the area, stand at least 36 inches tall for residences, have vertical balusters spaced no more than 4 inches apart, and be sturdy enough to withstand 200 lbs. of force. Proper handrails and guardrails will prevent many dangerous and even fatal falls in the home.

Safety Gates

Parents of small children and pet owners should install safety gates at the tops and bottoms of staircases and other hazardous areas in their homes. Safety gates will help prevent children and pets from wandering into unsafe zones and falling down stairs, which can lead to serious injury. There are two main types of safety gates. Hardware-mounted gates screw directly into the wall for the most secure installation. These gates come in styles like swing gates, sliding gates, and removable gates that can be taken on and off as needed. Retractable safety gates don't require hardware for installation. They simply expand in place and retract when not needed.While convenient, retractable gates can be pushed over by children more easily. When selecting a safety gate, look for ones that meet current safety standards, display JPMA certification, and have safety features like door alarms and emergency release mechanisms. Ideal gates are at least 30 inches tall with openings no larger than 2 3/8 inches. For maximum protection, install safety gates at the very top and very bottom of staircases. Only use gates designed specifically for the top of stairs in that location to prevent dangerous falls over the gate. Always test the installation for sturdiness before relying on a safety gate to protect children and pets.

Door Locks and Alarms

Adequately securing all exterior doors into the home is a key aspect of home safety. Start by installing sturdy deadbolt locks on all exterior doors, including garage entry doors. Deadbolts cannot be manipulated open from the outside. They extend a full solid metal bolt deep into the doorframe when locked. Choose deadbolts with a grade 2 lock cylinder, a bolt that extends at least 1 inch long, and heavy-duty strike plate attachments.For sliding doors, install high-quality sliding door locks or security bars that prevent the door from being forcibly opened even if glass is broken.Consider adding smart locks that allow keyless unlocking from a smartphone, useful when you need to grant access remotely to guests or services. Monitor video doorbells and security cameras so you can always see who is at your door as well.Set up a security system with entry sensors, motion detectors, audible alarms, and professional monitoring services for whole home protection.

Window Locks

It's easy to overlook window locks when security proofing a home, but they play an important role in preventing unlawful entry and keeping children safe. There are different types of window locks to consider for different needs. Ventilation locks allow windows to be partially opened for ventilation but prevent them from opening all the way. Pinned window locks use a pin or nail installed into the window frame to block it from sliding open.Child safety window locks limit how far a window opens to prevent kids from falling out, while still allowing some ventilation. Window guards are installed bars that prevent windows from opening more than 4-6 inches. It's important to assess all windows in a home for the appropriate lock needs based on size, location, and room purpose. Ground floor windows and windows in children's rooms should be prioritized for installing locks to maximize safety and security. Taking time to install proper window locks suitable for each window's use can help prevent unlawful entry and accidents.

Anti-Scald Devices

Setting your water heater temperature too high creates a scald danger from excessively hot water flowing from faucets and showerheads. Anti-scald devices like tempering valves and thermostatic mixing valves regulate water temperatures to safer levels. They either mix hot and cold water to reduce temperatures or limit the hottest temperatures coming from the water heater itself.You should install anti-scald regulators on sinks and tubs used by children, on showerheads or shower mixing valves, and near any frequently used sink prone to scalding risks. Combination temperature and pressure valves offer the best protection. Check device instructions to properly set a safe maximum temperature generally between 100-120°F. Periodically test with a thermometer to ensure they are working properly. Scald-safe plumbing fixtures provide inexpensive peace of mind.

Safety Fixtures and Your Peace of Mind

Installing and maintaining essential home safety fixtures reduces injury risks and prevents tragedy. Prioritizing fire prevention with smoke and CO detectors, having accessible fire extinguishers, and using anti-scald valves demonstrates a commitment to a safer living space. Secure locks, video doorbells, and monitored security systems deters crime. Handrails, guardrails, and safety gates prevent painful falls. Taking a proactive approach allows peace of mind knowing your home is properly equipped to protect your family.Get an inside look at the home industry and its latest innovations from the experts at High Performance Home. On our website, you can find insider knowledge on cutting-edge home design, read our blogs for the newest home trends, and discover our mission to unite home industry leaders to advance performance and progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I test my smoke detectors?

Test smoke detectors at least once per month by pressing the test button to ensure the alarm sounds and battery works. Change batteries every 6 months to 1 year.

Where is the best place to keep a fire extinguisher in my home?

Install fire extinguishers in central, easy-to-access locations on every floor, such as kitchens, garages, and basements. Avoid keeping them in closets or behind furniture.

Do I need a carbon monoxide detector if I have an electric stove?

Yes. Faulty electrical equipment, clogged chimneys, and exhaust fumes from vehicles in attached garages can all produce carbon monoxide. Install detectors on every floor for full protection.

Should I install anti-scald devices on my bathroom and kitchen faucets?

It's wise to install anti-scald valves on fixtures used for bathing and sinks frequently used for washing hands or dishes to prevent accidental scalding. Kitchen sinks mainly used for food prep don't need these devices.

What features should I look for when buying safety gates?

See JPMA certification, meet ASTM standards, be at least 30 inches tall, have a door alarm and emergency release, and have openings less than 2 3/8 inches. Only use hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairs.