Estimating the proportion of homes with functioning smoke alarms: A comparison of telephone survey and household survey results

M.R. Douglas, S. Mallonee and G.R. Istre

American Journal of Public Health, 1999, vol. 89, issue 7, 1112-1114

Abstract: Objectives. This study determined the proportion of homes with functioning smoke alarms in a low-income area experiencing a high rate of residential fire-related injuries. Methods. An on-site survey of households was conducted to confirm the results of a telephone survey. Results. In the telephone survey, 71% of households reported having functioning smoke alarms. In the household survey, 66% of households reported having functioning alarms; however, when the alarms were tested, the percentage dropped to 49%. Conclusions. Telephone surveys may overestimate the presence of functioning smoke alarms in some populations. Thus, the use of telephone surveys to establish baseline measures could significantly affect the evaluation of smoke alarm giveaway programs.

Date: 1999
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1999:89:7:1112-1114_2

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