What says romance like a homecooked, candlelit dinner this Valentine’s Day? We can assure you the answer is not a screeching smoke detector – or worse, setting your house on fire.
If you are planning on cooking that special someone a romantic, multi-course dinner, make sure to keep a close eye on the oven and those long, tapered candles. You don’t want to ruin the mood by setting off a smoke alarm!
According to Alarm.com, you can likely expect a spike in the number of smoke alarms during the evening hours on Valentine’s Day, when stoves are fired up, candles are lit, and anticipation is high.
Aggregated and anonymized data from millions of properties secured by Alarm.com technology reveals a 64% increase in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms between 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, compared to an average weeknight. In 2022 and 2023, Alarm.com recorded an average of 1,226 weeknight smoke alarms. In the evening on Valentine’s Day for these same years, the average increased to 2,010 smoke alarms.
What’s causing the extra heat in the kitchen? Whatever the reason, rest easy knowing these homeowners are all protected by Alarm.com. Every smoke and carbon monoxide detector referred to by this data is part of a professionally monitored, smart security system. When an alarm goes off at an Alarm.com property, a trained professional assesses the situation and can alert local authorities on your behalf. Plus, with the addition of an integrated, smart thermostat, Alarm.com can automatically shut off your HVAC system when a smoke alarm is triggered, stopping the spread of smoke throughout the home.
Don’t worry too much though. In the event you do set off the smoke detector, not only will your Alarm.com system notify you, but you’ll also have the option to verify or cancel the alarm right from the app. So, if it’s just a minor misfire and not a true emergency, you can save the fire department a trip and still keep your romance alive this Valentine’s Day.
To avoid adding unintended charring, brulée, or flambé to your menu (or your home), be sure to follow these safety tips:
· Cook safe with a freshly cleaned and cleared stovetop. Be sure to have a fire extinguisher on hand and be familiar with the process of putting out grease fires (just in case)!
· If you do decide to light the candles, keep a close eye on them and avoid placing them near furniture, drapes, pets, or children.
· Going one step further than candles to set the mood? Be sure to watch those fireplaces closely and use a metal fireplace screen to prevent damage or injury from flying embers.
Have a safe and happy Valentine’s Day! To explore more smart home security solutions powered by Alarm.com, click here.