It started with a failed experiment in 1930 and became one of the greatest lifesaving tools in history. In this episode of Beyond The Nozzle, we tell the story of the smoke detector—how a physicist’s cigarette test led to discovery, how Duane Pearsall made it affordable for homes in the 1960s, and how it has saved countless lives ever since.

Here’s what you’ll hear in this storytelling tribute:

🧪 The Accidental Invention

• Walter Jaeger’s failed poison gas detector experiment in 1930.

• How cigarette smoke revealed the principle behind ionization detectors.

🔋 The Home Revolution

• Duane Pearsall’s SmokeGard 700, the first practical home smoke alarm.

• How building codes in the 1970s–80s made smoke detectors a household requirement.

🔥 A Famous Save

• The 1982 Minneapolis fire where a family of five survived thanks to a hallway smoke detector.

• Why seconds mattered—and how the alarm made the difference.

📊 The Lifesaving Impact

• Fire deaths in homes cut by more than 50% after smoke alarms became widespread.

• The ongoing reminder: a smoke detector only works if it’s installed and maintained.

🎙️ Beyond The Nozzle is produced by Social FD, bringing you true stories of fire service history, invention, and courage.

Until tomorrow, on Beyond The Nozzle… stay safe, stay engaged, and remember: a simple post can save a life.

👉 Learn more: socialfd.org | beyondthenozzle.com