Check Your Smoke Detectors Semi-Annually

Saint Clair Shores, MI, March 06, 2009 --(PR.com)-- We all see the news. Each day, accidental fires kill hundreds of people across the United States. Often, the only difference between escaping a house fire and a fatal house fire is the correct operation of smoke detectors. Experts recommend that you test and change batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO2) detectors every spring and fall to assure they will work when needed. Experts also recommend you change your detectors every 10 years, as the sensors in the detectors degrade and become less sensitive over time. This can lead to a slower response to smoke detection, or worse a failure when you need it most.

In Michigan, the Building, Residential and Renovation Codes require Smoke Detectors in each sleeping room or directly outside each sleeping room and on every level in the home (to include the basement). There are some provisions for split-level homes as to where the detectors must be located. Many municipalities require that smoke detectors be wired directly to the home’s electrical panel and be interconnected. In most cases, if you have a home renovation done, local inspectors will require you to update your smoke detectors to be in compliance with the current laws.

The Family Craftsman would like to help people age 65 and older, living independently in their own homes to be safe by checking their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for free until April 15, 2009. They will test your detectors for proper operation, check the batteries for proper voltage and replace them if necessary, in your home, at your convenience.

The Family Craftsman can also provide services to install new smoke detectors, replace malfunctioning detectors or replace batteries for a nominal fee for any homeowner. The Family Craftsman also offers free estimates to evaluate your home’s compliance to applicable building codes.

About The Family Craftsman:
The Family Craftsman is a small, locally owned company, founded by Dave Cottrell that specializes in affordable, quality handyman and maintenance services in Macomb, Oakland and Northern Wayne Counties. Learn more at www.familycraftsman.com.

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