Which device is essential for early fire detection in homes?

A smoke detector is essential for early fire detection in homes because it is specifically designed to sense the presence of smoke, which is a primary indicator of fire. When smoke is detected, the device emits a loud alarm to alert occupants, giving them critical time to escape and call for help. Smoke detectors use either ionization or photoelectric technology to identify smoke particles in the air, making them highly effective in detecting fires at their earliest stages.

Other devices, while important for safety in a home, serve different purposes. A carbon monoxide detector identifies dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas, which can be a silent killer but is not directly related to fire detection. A fire extinguisher is a vital tool for putting out small fires and minimizing damage if a fire occurs, but it does not detect fires. A heat sensor detects changes in temperature but may not provide early warning as effectively as a smoke detector, which can sense smoke before flames appear.