Frightening Home Security Statistics Usher in New Year

The FBI recently released a series of frightening statistics. 2013 has officially overshadowed its predecessors and is now being labeled as "One of the biggest blows in recent history". Aside from being an incredibly busy year for home invasions, 2013 spiked bloodily as random acts of violence and murder overwhelmed the country. From Washington to Maine, the United States was sacked for a crippling $4.8 billion in stolen and lost property. An approximated 2.2 million instances of burglary were reported. You must take into consideration that this number does not appropriately reflect the percentage of thefts that were unreported or dismissed. The numbers themselves are terrifying. Even more haunting is the emotional and psychological damage inflicted upon victims of home invasion.

By the time you have reached this paragraph, another one or two robberies have occurred in the United States. By year's end, one of every five homes will be subject to a violent and potentially fatal home invasion or burglary. 2013 was a record year for all for all of the wrong reasons and may serve us better as a learning experience. Criminals are becoming increasingly adept and fearless in their pursuit of ill-gotten wealth and inflicting harm. Now perhaps more than ever is the appropriate time to outfit your home with a defense plan that's proven to repel criminals and keep violence at a distance.

A recent study in Washington D.C. has revealed that security cameras DO instill doubt and hesitancy into any potential invader. The study also heavily suggested that the very sight of a well placed Security Camera more often than not detours criminals entirely. First Alert features an arsenal of Security Cameras and Accessories to defend your home from any potential home invaders. Wireless options allow you to personally mount Cameras in hot spots. Not only will you have a device to safely monitor your surrounding area, you'll be implementing a tested and proven defense against invasion. These can also be installed in places of work to bolster security and prevent internal and external crime.

The FBI recites that nearly every home invasion begins at the front door. Whether it's picking a lock or breaching a door with sheer force, a criminal's favorite point of access has proven to be the front door. You can remove this doubt entirely with the installation of an incredibly durable Security Door that doubles as a barrier and stylish layer. First Alert delivers a surplus of options for homeowners searching for that extra peace of mind that can only be established by a guarantee. First Alert Security Doors perform doubly as an immovable defense against unwanted visitors and as a shield from natural deteriorations such as rust.

2014 has all the makings to supersede last year's display of national violence. Remove the thought of yourself and those closest to you from ever experiencing the trauma associated with home invasion. Equip your home with the absolute finest in Home Defense this year. First Alert has proven to be an invaluable ally in preventing home invasions. One in five is an elevated risk that can be avoided altogether this year. Don't put yourself or your loved ones in a position of becoming a statistic this year. Trust First Alert to see you through these unpredictable and often violent times.

First Alert Store Past News Articles

Browse the latest First Alert Store news, product updates, buying guides, safety tips, promotions, and store announcements.

What is LL157?

LL157 states NYC property owners must install natural gas detectors in all residential dwellings by the January 1, 2027 deadline.
The Essentials of NYC Local Law 157

Why Is My Smoke Alarm Beeping (or Chirping)?

That chirping sound coming from your smoke alarm might be annoying, but it's important not to ignore it. A beeping smoke alarm is a signal that something needs your attention. In most instances, smoke alarms will be beep due to the following:
Why Is My Smoke Alarm Beeping (or Chirping)?

How Do I Stop My Alarm From Chirping?

Stopping nuisance alarms and alarm chirping can be as simple as checking your alarm's battery to something a little more involved as moving the alarm to another location. Let's figure out why your alarm keeps chirping.
How Do I Stop My Smoke Alarm From Chirping?

Enhance in Home Safety with ADA Certified Hearing Impaired Devices

We often receive messages from folks looking to enhance their in home smoke, fire and carbon monoxide safety while being mindful of hearing loss. We're happy to say that the First Alert Store currently features three hearing impaired devices that can quickly alert residents with a powerful LED strobe light that meets UL and ADA requirements.
ADA Certified Hearing Impaired Smoke Detectors

First Alert Smoke & Fire Alarms: Ten Years of Protection Under $13.00

One of the more common misconceptions about smoke alarms is that they cost an arm and a leg to purchase. The First Alert brand handles this in stride with having smoke and fire alarms available for every budget. The two smoke alarms we'll be focusing on today offer a decade's worth of protection for under $13.00.
First Alert Smoke Alarms Standard Models - Affordable and Reliable

What Are Wireless Interconnect Smoke Alarms?

When seconds are vital in safely escaping in the event of an emergency, you'll need a smoke and fire defense system that's capable of alerting the entire home. First Alert Wireless Interconnect Smoke Alarms remove the limitations of a standard smoke detector by being able to link with one another.
How do Wireless Interconnect Smoke Alarms Work?

Hardwired & Battery Operated Smoke Alarms: Quick Detection & Reliable Protection

When it comes to selecting a smoke alarm for your home, you'll have plenty of options to choose from at the First Alert Store. Whether it's the easy to setup and reliable protection of a hardwired smoke alarm or the increased coverage of an interconnected combination alarm, the First Alert offers smoke and fire protection in various forms.
Hardwired and Battery Operated Smoke Alarms

First Alert Fire Prevention Month: Do You Have An Escape Plan?

Having a series of smoke and fire alarms installed in your home remains the best defense in the face of a potential fire. There's no replacing that initial window of time created by a smoke detector's ability to warn its surroundings. Having that time and knowing what to do with it remain two different things. Every home should have a fire escape plan committed to memory.
First Alert Fire Safety Month: Do You Have An Escape Plan?

First Alert Fire Prevention Month: Are You Protected?

October is Fire Prevention Month. The First Alert Store is here to provide you with the resources and fire safety equipment needed to ensure that you and your family are protected for this month and beyond. Did you know that 3 out of 5 home fire deaths took place in homes without functioning smoke detectors?
Home Fire Prevention and Protection

Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Create an Interconnected CO Defense System

While battery operated and plug in carbon monoxide detectors offer some excellent versatility with regards to installation, they lack the interconnected features of a hardwired carbon monoxide alarm. First Alert Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Detectors can be linked together, ensuring a large net of detection when searching for carbon monoxide.
Wired Carbon Monoxide Alarms: An Interconnected Defense Against CO

Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Maneuverable Room to Room Carbon Monoxide Detection

There is something inherently convenient about being able to plug in a carbon monoxide alarm. You can simply plug in a carbon monoxide detector into a standard wall outlet and have immediate access to co detection. This makes plug in carbon monoxide alarms a popular choice for those who want to avoid the installation process of a hardwired or battery operated detector.
PlugIn Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Portable Carbon Monoxide Detection

First Alert Traveling Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Forgoing hardwired installation, this traveling carbon monoxide alarm can be moved from room to room or be used on the go. No larger than the size of most cellphones, the traveling carbon monoxide detector is powered by a 10-year lithium battery.
Traveling First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detector

SmartBridge Home Security Systems & Security Cameras

Take control of your home security systems with the easy-to-setup Smartbridge security system. This unique home or office security system can be controlled or monitored online at any time, no matter where you are.

First Alert Winter Holiday Fire Safety Tips & Risks

The winter months carry a significantly increased risk for homeowners seeking to protect themselves and their loved ones from the very real and often lethal attributes of fire and carbon monoxide. First Alert Store offers tips and the tools required to keep your family and home safe from fire, smoke and carbon monoxide during the holidays.
Winter Holiday Fire Safety Tips & Risks by First Alert Store

Plan, Prevent and Protect your Home this winter with First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarms

The winter months heighten the already potential lethal properties associated with carbon monoxide. It is absolutely essential that homeowners have access to a CO alarm that will readily alert their surroundings to the presence of the "silent killer", carbon monoxide. The First Alert Store offers a collection of carbon monoxide alarms that will allow homeowners to achieve the maximum in peace of mind this winter.
Winter Carbon Monoxide Protection by First Alert CO Alarms & Detectors

Recognize the Threats and Plan Accordingly with First Alert

Numerous studies have concluded that the very presence of a functioning smoke alarm reduces the overall percentages of fatalities associated with fire by a staggering half. The First Alert Store showcases an extraordinary amount of performance rich First Alert Smoke Alarms that are ideal for combating the many dangers presented by the presence of smoke, fire and carbon monoxide.
Fire & Smoke Safety Products From First Alert Store

Labor Day Weekend Home Invasions Spark Critical Concern

The Official First Alert Store features several home security products to give you peace of mind including security cameras, home security safes, security doors, motion sensing lights, home test kits, escape ladders and more!

First Alert Hardwired Smoke Alarm Contractor Pack

The contractor pack of hardwired smoke alarms with battery backup isn't just for new construction it is a perfect fit for apartment complexes, fire departments and other organizations. This bulk smoke detector comes in a convenient 6 pack that includes individual packaging, a battery and a manual for each alarm.
BRK Wired In Smoke Alarm Contractor Detectors

First Alert Lead Testing Kits

First Alert Lead Test Kits contain enough materials for 4 separate tests for the multiple items you may be purchasing.
First Alert Home and Garage Lead Testing Kits

First Alert Mold Testing Kits

Spring is here and to me, that means rain. Many people have basements and with the saturated ground that can mean seepage. Seepage can easily turn to mold if you don’t dry your basement properly. Mold has become a real topic of concern due to its effects it can have on your health with long exposure times.
Home Mold Testing Kit by First Alert

Escape Light Smoke Alarm

If you have a dark hallway or even a dark area in your home, it may be a great idea to replace your smoke alarm with one of our Escape Light Smoke Alarms.
Escape Light Smoke Alarm

Hearing Impaired Strobe Alarm

This alarm is specifically made for the hearing impaired, however anyone can use it. There have been some changes made over the past years.
Hearing Impaired Smoke Alarm with Flashing Strobe Light

Hardwired CO Alarm

The Hardwired CO Alarm can be interconnected with existing smoke alarms and is especially beneficial when there are living spaces on different levels of your home.
Best First Alert Wired Carbon Monoxide Alarm

New alarms coming to FirstAlertStore.com

Many states require you to have a hardwired smoke alarms in your home. This one does double duty and will detect fast burning fires and also smoky smoldering fires.
New alarms coming to FirstAlertStore.com

Holy Moldy! Controlling the Outspread of Mold

Mold, by far, is another contributor we can add to the list that causes (minor) health issues. Mold, a fungus that grows in damp areas, can cause health problems such as sinus, allergies, hay-fever, and common skin irritations if inhaled and/or physically exposed.
Holy Moldy! Mold Outbreak in Home

Holy Moldy!! PT.2 Tips and Tricks to Help Reduce Mold in your Home

As stated before, the key to reducing mold is MOISTURE CONTROL. However if you should experience an outspread of mold, here are some user-friendly tips you can take on reducing mold: REDUCE THE HUMIDITY IN YOUR HOMES: Using appliances such as air conditioners and de-humidifiers are a good source in removing moisture. Whenever you are cooking, showering, or cleaning, running a fan and/or opening some windows for air ventilation keeps control of the humidity in your home also.
Tips to Help Reduce Mold in your Home

Make It A Priority to Test Your Alarms Annually

Check your alarm's manufacturing date and warranty to make sure your alarm is in good standing and you are covered in the event you may need a replacement (if your alarm is not working properly or is malfunctioning)y
Yearly Testing of First Alert Smoke Alarms

Tis the Season To Buy A Multi-Pack Set of Alarms

Not sure what to purchase for the holidays? FirstAlertStore.com has a variety of combo/multipacks that can help achieve your holiday goal: to spread good cheer and provide not only quality and safety, but quantity to accompany all (if not most).
First Alert Multi-Pack Set of Smoke Detectors

How Do I Reset My First Alert Alarm's Battery?

Disconnect all power sources (take out the battery, if it is a plug in alarm remove it from the outlet, and if it is hardwired alarm disconnect it from any wiring). Hold the test/silence button for 20 seconds. Reconnect all power sources (put the new battery in, plug back into the outlet.
How Do I Reset My First Alert Alarm's Battery?

Pratice using your Fire Escape Ladder

With the winter months right around the corner and with many homes using their fire places it is important to practice some fire safety. We carry two fire escape ladders (for 2 story homes and for 3 story homes).
Fire Escape Planning - Using your Fire Escape Ladder

Tundra Fire Extinguisher, the perfect gift

This unique fire extinguisher is easy to use, simply point and shoot. I best describe it like spraying hairspray and it is about the same size as a large hairspray bottle. It is so small that it can sit on the countertop or store under the kitchen sink without taking up a lot of room.
Tundra Fire Extinguisher by First Alert - Gift Idea

Fort Wayne fire leaves 2 children dead, 2 hurt

Firefighters found four children inside the home. Fire, police and medical personnel performed emergency medical treatment, but one child died at the scene. The three others were taken to the hospital, where one of them later died.
Deadly Fire - Could Have Been Prevented With Working Smoke Detectors

Three Killed in Wayne County Fire

People living on the right side of the apartment where the fire happened made it out safely and are staying elsewhere. Three people are dead after an apartment fire early Wednesday in Wayne County.
Smoke Detectors - Three Killed in Wayne County Fire

50 tenants evacuated after deadly monoxide leak

Leak in a San Francisco apartment building killed a 77-year-old man and injured eight other people. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, colorless and highly toxic gas that is a byproduct of combustion.
Deadly Carbon Monoxide Leak in a San Francisco Apartment Building

Daylight Saving Time brings important safety reminder

With the beginning of Daylight Saving Time and the Spring Forward time change on March 9, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is urging people to take safety precautions with smoke alarms when they set their clocks ahead one hour.
Daylight Saving Time brings important safety reminder

Smoke detectors can give time needed to escape from fire

In two to three minutes, a typical living room or bedroom can become fully engulfed in flames.  But people who die in house fires often aren't touched by flame. People who die in house fires often do so without ever waking up, succumbing to smoke and poisonous gases before they are touched by flames.
Smoke Detector Early Fire Warning

Which type of smoke detector do you have?

Experts say the ionization alarm provides a better response to flaming fires, where the less common photoelectric provides a faster response to smoldering fires. Firefighters recommend that you have both.
Do you know what type of smoke detector is installed?

Carbon Monoxide Can Be Deadly Intruder

There was no smoke billowing from the roof and no flames shooting out of windows. Even the interior looked untouched. But there was a hazard, and over time it could be deadly. Carbon monoxide could be called a stealth gas.
Carbon monoxide can be deadly intruder