There are various different types of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are widely available and can cost as little as £5. The cost of a smoke alarm varies on the type of detection it uses.
Ionisation -
- These types of smoke alarms detect free burning flames such as chip pan fires.
- They detect the smoke before it gets thick.
- Cost from under £5.
- Availability - can be found in most supermarkets and DIY stores.
Optical -
- These are more sensitive and will detect slow-burning fires.
- Less likely to go off whilst you are cooking.
- Cost from £15.
- Availability - can be found in DIY and electrical stores.
Combined -
- These detect both free burning flames and slow-burning fires.
- Cost from £5.
- Availability - can be found in DIY and electrical stores.
Whichever model of smoke alarm you choose, look out for one which has a British Standard Kitemark symbol which indicates that the detector is an approved model.
Some fire services offer a home fire safety visit and provide free smoke alarms to the elderly and vulnerable, contact your local fire service for more details.