Validity of smoke alarm self-report measures and reasons for over-reporting.

ABSTRACT:Objectives: Many residential fire deaths occur in homes with no or non-functioning smoke alarms (SAs). Self reported SA coverage is high, but studies have found varying validity for self-report measures. The authors aim to: (1) determine over-reporting of coverage, (2) describe socio-demographic correlates of over-reporting and (3) report reasons for over-reporting. Methods: The authors surveyed 603 households in a large, urban area about fire safety behaviours and then tested all SAs in the home. 23 participants who over reportedtheir SA coverage were telephoned and asked about why they had misreported. Results: Full coverage was reported in 70% of households but observed in only 41%, with a low positive predictive value (54.2%) for the self-report measure. Most over-reporters assumed alarms were working because they were mounted or did not think a working alarm in a basement or attic was needed to be fully protected. Conclusions: If alarms cannot be tested, researchers or those counselling residents on fire safety should carefully probe self-reported coverage. Our findings support efforts to equip more homes with hard-wired or 10 year lithium battery alarms to reduce the need for user maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]