How to Install an Emergency Lighting System & Siren
Power failures are bad enough, but what happens if the power fails in the dead of night and important equipment needs to have backup electricity? Would you know the power failed while you were asleep? With a combination of an emergency lighting system and an integrated siren, you can be sure that even when the electricity cuts out, you will be notified and have enough light to begin emergency preparations. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Evaluate your specific lighting needs to determine which light/siren kit makes the most sense. Pay special attention to whether you need area or directional lighting, and whether there are barriers (like staircases) that could limit the effectiveness of sirens operating at different decibel ratings.
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Locate an electrical outlet that is not used or blocked by furniture. The outlet should be located in an area where the light will be most useful, like a hallway. Ensure that the light is not controlled by a switch or dimmer.
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Mount the light a few inches above the outlet; typically, this requires mounting screws to be sunk into the wall. Use the zip tie to secure any extra length of power cord, if necessary.
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Plug the A/C power cord into the socket and turn on the unit. If the unit has a test button, press it to make sure the lights and siren function properly. If your unit has movable lights, position them to provide the best illumination.
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From your electrical panel, trip the circuit breaker controlling that particular outlet to verify that the unit functions with the electricity cut.
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Tips & Warnings
Set your calendar to swap your batteries and check the light/siren unit when you swap smoke-detector batteries twice per year--emergency power does you no good when your batteries are dead.
Many communities have strict regulations about electrician services, so before attempting to rewire your walls to provide a dedicated A/C input to your emergency light, talk to your local zoning board or fire inspector.
