A fire is one of the greatest potential hazards that concern business or homeowner. According to a 5-year survey (taken by the US fire department from 2013-2017)) there was an average of 345,000 home fires per year in America.

These accounted for an estimated 2,620 civilian deaths; 11,220 injuries, and $6.9 billion in property damage. The five leading causes of the fires, were: cooking, heating, electrical and lighting malfunctions, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.

Early smoke detection is one of the best measures that anyone can take to ensure the safety of their home or place of business. The newest smoke alarm technology allows your alarm to deliver alerts to your phone or other mobile devices through an app. It will also relay the exact location of the alarm that has been triggered. This advancement is encouraging news for homeowners looking to keep their homes as safe as possible. But, what criteria should we use to choose the smoke alarm that best meets our needs?

Price, Features, and Functionality are three basic criteria we can look at. Most of the higher-end models of smart smoke detectors will run between $100 and $250. However, there are some cheaper options available.

Probably the best option for those on a budget is “smart battery” or “smart listener” models. These products convert your existing fire alarm into a smart alarm by outfitting it with a battery or piece of hardware that “listens” for your smoke detector’s siren and then alerts you.

These cheaper options may not have all of the advanced features of more expensive models, but they are effective and affordable (ranging between about $35 to $50).

Some of the various features available on smart smoke detectors are; smoke and carbon monoxide detection, color-coded lighting which informs you of what issue has been detected by your alarm. Many varieties can connect with Alexa, Siri, or Google’s assistant.

One feature available in some models is the ability to shut off your ventilation system when smoke is detected (a potentially life-saving move). And if you really want to get fancy you can have an alarm system through which you can control your blinds, your heat, or even your security camera. It all depends on what you’re looking to get out of your smoke alarm…and how big of a budget you have!

Finally, but most important of all is functionality. While smart smoke detectors are the most cutting edge technology available for your home today, they still may utilize different methods for detecting fires.

For example, some detectors may use ionization-type sensors which are best at detecting fast-burning fires. While others might use photoelectric sensors. These are generally better at alerting you about smoldering, or slow-burning fires.

You should have both types of alarms in your house. Some smoke alarms are designed to pick up both types of fires. Also, keep in mind that not all alarms will work with Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa.

Gauging alarm sensitivity to smoke and heat can also be difficult to achieve without having an actual fire! So be sure to read plenty of reviews and safety rating data on the alarm system you’re interested in. A smart smoke alarm system can be a great investment for your home.

No matter what your budget is, a new smart smoke detection system is a great idea to help keep you and your family safe.