August 11, 2008 -- Delegates approved a resolution Monday that says federal and provincial officials should mandate that all relevant building standards and codes developed in the United States and Canada include a requirement for photoelectric smoke detectors.

Research has demonstrated that photoelectric smoke detectors are more effective at warning of smoke from smoldering fires than ionization smoke detectors.

Vermont Governor Jim Douglas signed the first-ever state law mandating installation of photoelectric smoke detectors May 29, 2008. Under that law, photoelectric smoke detectors are required in all new construction and in existing property when sold. The IAFF will advocate for laws and standards similar to the law passed in Vermont.