In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal — so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can buy for your home, and because they are mass-produced, you can purchase one for as little as $7.

There are two methods for operating these detectors. They can be wired directly into your home or a simple 9-volt battery can power them. In new construction, direct-wired detectors are mandatory. These are most reliable and don’t depend on the homeowner remembering to change the batteries. But for retrofit situations, a battery operated unit is acceptable. It is recommended that every home have one smoke detector per level, and one in the garage.

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Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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