What is a smoke sensor?
Q: What is a smoke sensor?
A: A smoke sensor, or smoke detector, is a device that can detect the presence of smoke, which may be an indicator of a fire.
Q: How do simple standalone sensors usually alert people to the presence of smoke?
A: Simple standalone sensors typically make a sound or flash a light when they detect smoke.
Q: What are two methods used by most smoke detectors to detect the presence of smoke?
A: Most smoke detectors use either an optical sensor or physical process called ionization to detect the presence of smoke.
Q: How often should batteries in simple standalone sensors be replaced?
A: Batteries in simple standalone sensors should be replaced regularly; if not, the detectors will stop working and may "chirp" when the battery is low as a warning sign.
Q: Are there systems that are connected directly to electrical power for backup purposes?
A: Yes, there are systems that are connected directly to electrical power for backup purposes; these may use batteries as well.
Q: What does a typical domestic-use detector look like?
A: Domestic-use detectors typically have plastic enclosures shaped like disks about 150 millimetres (6 in) in diameter and 25 millimetres (1 in) thick, but shape and size vary.
Q: Can sensitive alarms be used to deter smoking in areas where it is banned?
A: Yes, sensitive alarms can be used to detect and deter smoking in areas where it is banned.
