Ionization Smoke Detectors

Kidde Basic


Where to buy While this no-frills ionization model is good at detecting high-flame fires, it is less adept at sensing smoky fires, such as those caused by smoldering bedding.

That’s why ionization smoke detectors are not the best choice for bedrooms.

Experts prefer models such as the First Alert Dual Sensor, which also has a photoelectric sensor for detecting slow, smoldering blazes.


KidSmart Brand Vocal Fire Alarm

Reviews say the KidSmart combats a major problem involving children and house fires.

Studies show that children often sleep through a normal smoke detector's alarm -- or else they respond so slowly that they cannot escape the house within the critical two-minute time window.

The KidSmart is a photoelectric detector that allows parents to record a message in their own voice.

Studies say that children are much more likely to respond quickly to a parent's voice, and the majority of kids in tests were awake and moving within 32 seconds of the KidSmart's alarm.

Since this model is photoelectric only, you'll also want to install ionization alarms.