Developed by David Albert, M.D., a scientist and well-known expert in biomedical engineering and cardiovascular research, the Lifetone HL is the only UL-Listed fire alarm to use a 520 Hz signal and bed shaker, the technologies proven most effective at waking people in a fire.

"Before now, strobe alarms were the only UL-Listed fire alarms available for those with hearing loss," Albert said. "The extensive process involved in achieving UL Listing demonstrates Lifetone Technology’s dedication to introducing new products that improve life safety in fires and other emergencies."

According to research studies by the U.S. Fire Administration and the Fire Protection Research Foundation, an affiliate of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a 520 Hz square-wave signal is proven to be more effective at awakening at-risk individuals than standard fire alarms, which use a high-frequency 3100 Hz pure tone signal. The 520 Hz square-wave tone also was more effective in waking participants than strobe lights or tactile devices. What’s more, strobe lights alone woke less than 30 percent of participants with hearing loss.

"Fire safety is an overlooked problem for the millions of Americans who are heavy sleepers or experience hearing loss at any level," said Mark Colello, Lifetone Technology’s president and chief executive officer.   "Lifetone HL’s compatibility with all UL certified smoke alarms manufactured since 1999 will make for easy installation and peace of mind for consumers. Ultimately, this product can help save lives."

Approximately 70 million Americans suffer from varying degrees of hearing loss and typically have more trouble hearing high frequencies than low ones. In fact, 44 percent of people with hearing loss do not wake to the sound of standard fire alarms due to their high pitch. With roughly half of all home fire deaths resulting from incidents reported between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., this is a significant safety issue.