Question : Where can I go to get a T.O.T. finder?

Answer
In Delran Township you can obtain a T.O.T. finder by contacting the Delran Fire Dept. Office at 461-5474 between the hours of 9 to 2.

Question : How much water does it take to extinguish a room and contents fire?

Answer
In an average sized residential room of 10' x 10', and under ideal conditions, it would take 8 gallons of water per minute to extinguish a fire in this room. This depends on the water reaching all burning areas in the room and being completely converted to steam. Under normal conditions it takes more water because it is difficult to reach all burning material in a room. Usually water is applied into the room to darken it down and then the stream is shut down. The firefighters then overhaul the materials to find hidden fire and apply more water but in small quantities. Statistically 75% of all fires are extinguished with 250 gallons of water or less.

Question : Do I really need smoke detectors in my home?

Answer
YES!!! We cannot emphasize enough the importance of properly located and maintained smoke detectors in the home. Without a doubt, they are the simplest, cheapest and most cost effective way to provide early warning against fire. Smoke detectors have been required by law since the early 1970's in all new homes built in the State of New Jersey. Requirements for the type, location and number of smoke detectors have changed over the years.

If your home was built prior to 1977, at least one battery operated (DC) smoke detector is required to be placed on each level of the home.

If your home was built after 1977 but before 1990, at least one AC powered smoke detector is required on each level of the home. All AC powered smoke detectors are to be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

If your home was built after 1990, an AC powered smoke detector with battery backup is required for each bedroom and on each level. All AC powered smoke detectors are to be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

Question : How often should I change the batteries in my smoke detector?

Answer
A safe practice is to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors on the same days that you change your clocks in April and October. Remember: Change your clocks change your batteries!

Question : I've heard a lot about Carbon Monoxide gas detectors, are they really worth having?

Answer
YES!!! Carbon Monoxide detectors are worth having because they could save your life! Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is created during the combustion process. Combustion occurs when your oil or gas furnace comes on to heat your house. Combustion occurs when you operate your fireplace, gas range in the kitchen or your gas hot water heater. If these devices are not properly cleaned or the combustion by-products are not properly vented, they could build up in the house and you might not know it. This could be especially deadly at night when everyone is asleep. To prevent poisoning by carbon monoxide gas, one carbon monoxide gas detector should be placed in the bedroom area. A second one is recommended in the area of the oil or gas furnace to afford additional protection. Although more expensive than smoke detectors, they are well worth the money!