What is the primary purpose of a smoke detector?

The primary purpose of a smoke detector is to alert occupants to the presence of smoke and potential fire. Smoke detectors are designed to detect smoke particles in the air, which are often an indicator of a fire, and to sound an alarm to alert those in the vicinity. This early warning is essential for the safety of occupants, allowing them to evacuate a building and seek safety at the earliest signs of danger.

Effective smoke detection can significantly reduce the risk of injury or loss of life in the event of a fire, making them a critical component of fire safety systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Other options, such as measuring air quality, controlling fire extinguishers, or providing illumination, do not align with the fundamental function of smoke detectors, which is primarily focused on fire alerting.