What says romance like a homecooked, candlelit dinner this Valentine’s Day? We can assure you the answer is not a screeching smoke detector.
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 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 dinnertime on Valentine’s Day, when stoves are fired up, candles are lit, and anticipation is high.
Aggregated, anonymized data from millions of properties on the Alarm.com platform shows that during the past two years, the incidence of smoke alarms increased by 64% during dinnertime (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 weekday dinnertime smoke alarms. At dinnertime 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 your home is protected by CPI Security. 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 a CPI Security property, a trained professional assesses the situation and can alert local authorities on your behalf. Plus, with the addition of an integrated, smart thermostat, CPI Security 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 CPI Security 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, 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!
