Did you know there are 2 types of technology used in smoke detectors. Most common is Ionisation, approx. 90% of ones in use, but some experts suggest that Photoelectric is more effective , reacting in 50% less time in the same fire. As you would guess the Photoelectric is more expensive and less likely to be carried in the hardware store. There are units using both technologies available also.
Either way install one in your home, preferably hard wired and also consider installing one in the garage, many fires originate there. Check for the age of any installed in your home, inside will likely be the date of manufacture or the date that the manufacturer recommends replacement on a sticker, the exterior casing becoming discoloured to a yellowish colour also indicates its extended age also. When they become teenagers they become just as unreliable as the ones that live in your spare room or basement so replace yours and consider which technology you trust most. Current code requires the installation of a Carbon Monoxide detector also so please consider this upgrade, their usable lifetime is less being around 10 years.
http://www.nbcnews.com/video/
http://www.nbcnews.com/video/
