This research summary shares findings from a 1,055-respondent Fire Safety Survey—what people know (and miss) about CO poisoning, smoke alarm testing, extinguisher coverage, and home fire planning. It closes with practical, plain-English actions plus product pointers for wall pack lights and emergency lights that improve visibility during outages and evacuations.
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Actions from the Survey
Smoke Alarms
- Test monthly. Replace batteries annually or at low-battery chirp.
- Right count: At least one in every bedroom and on each floor.
CO Detectors
- Install on every level and outside sleeping areas.
- Know the symptoms of CO poisoning (headache, dizziness, nausea).
Extinguishers & Plans
- One on every level. Learn PASS (Pull–Aim–Squeeze–Sweep).
- Escape plan: Two ways out; practice twice a year.
Survey Overview
The Fire Safety Survey analyzes how prepared 1,055 individuals are for home fire emergencies—covering CO awareness, smoke alarm testing, CO detector ownership, extinguisher coverage, real-world extinguisher use, and having a house fire plan.
Headline takeaways: Many households own safety devices, but habits and confidence lag. Gaps in testing, coverage, and planning increase risk during actual events.
New Fire Safety Survey
The items below summarize each question, the response split, and a short analysis.
Question 1: Knowledge of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- 59% (620) answered “Yes”—they and their family know CO symptoms.
- 41% (435) answered “No.”
Analysis: A majority is informed, but the 41% gap underscores the need for targeted CO education.
Question 2: Frequency of Smoke Alarm Testing
- 20% (211) test once per month.
- 40% (423) test a few times a year.
- 28% (292) test once a year.
- 12% (129) never test.
Analysis: Large middle group tests irregularly; 12% never test—undercutting alarm reliability in real incidents.
Question 3: Presence of Carbon Monoxide Detector
- 70% (740) have a CO detector installed.
- 30% (315) do not.
Analysis: Adoption is strong, but the remaining 30% face preventable, potentially fatal risk.
Question 4: Fire Extinguisher on Every Level
- 58% (612) have an extinguisher on every level.
- 42% (443) do not.
Analysis: Missing coverage limits fast response to small, containable fires.
Question 5: Use of Fire Extinguisher in Emergency
- 25% (259) have used an extinguisher in a real emergency.
- 75% (796) have not.
Analysis: Confidence and training matter—owning gear ≠ readiness under stress.
Question 6: Having a House Fire Plan
- 72% (764) have a plan.
- 28% (291) do not.
Analysis: Planning is the bright spot—keep practicing and documenting.
Question 7: Smoke Alarms Required in a 4 Bedroom, 2-Level House
- 2% (26) chose 1 alarm.
- 33% (352) chose 2 alarms.
- 21% (220) chose 5 alarms.
- 43% (457) chose 6 alarms (correct).
Analysis: Correct answer is 6 (one in each bedroom plus one on each floor). With 43% correct, over half of households underestimate coverage—an education opportunity.
Summary of Findings
- 41% do not know CO poisoning symptoms.
- 12% never test smoke alarms.
- 30% lack CO detectors.
- 42% don’t have an extinguisher on every floor.
- 28% have no basic fire escape plan.
Bottom line: ownership is common; habits, placement, and practice need work.
Key Recommendations
- Educate: Simple CO symptom and alarm-testing campaigns.
- Train: Hands-on extinguisher practice (PASS) and family drills.
- Remind: Monthly test reminders via phone/calendar.
- Clarify standards: Publish clear smoke-alarm placement guides.
- Incentivize: Discounts or subsidies for detectors/extinguishers.
Wall Packs for Residential Fire Safety
Exterior wall packs can improve nighttime visibility during evacuations, especially near driveways, outdoor stairs, entries, and garages. Motion or dusk-to-dawn controls help ensure light when it’s needed most—even during power disruptions when paired with emergency egress lighting indoors.
Emergency Lighting for Home Safety
Emergency lights automatically illuminate hallways and stairways during outages, guiding people to exits. They’re compact, affordable, and designed to run for extended periods on backup power.
Beyond Stop, Drop, and Roll
Good safety is routine, not a one-time purchase. Keep alarms tested, exits clear, and plans practiced. Review kitchen, electrical, candle, and heating safety; teach kids; and make sure everyone knows how to contact emergency services. Consider home sprinklers for added protection.
“At Unlimited Lights LLC, safety is our wake-up call. Shockingly, 30% lack a fire plan. We’re flipping the switch—empowering every household, turning statistics into preparedness.” – CEO Wyatt Doolittle
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only. Consult qualified professionals and local authorities for guidance specific to your home.
Related Resources
- Wall Pack Lighting Buyer’s Guide — Practical explainer with comparison chart, feature checklist, and use-case recommendations.