When people think about using fog machines and creating that cool smoky effect, they might not realize just how many places you can use them. One of the most commonly asked questions about these devices is whether or not they can be used indoors, and if they are, how safe is it really?
If you’ve recently invested in a fog machine or you’re trying to plan an indoor event where you really want to use one of these effect makers, you probably have a lot of questions. Do fog machines set off smoke alarms? Is the liquid toxic? What tips do I need to follow to ensure it’s done safely?
This simple guide will answer all of those questions and more for you so that you can have peace of mind about using an indoor fog machine. There’s no reason why the effects of fog can’t be enjoyed inside your house as long as you know how to do it the right way, and we’re here to show you how.
Can You Use A Fog Machine Indoors?
When you’re planning a party and have a huge dancefloor inside or want everyone to walk through your home in a scary haunted house set up for Halloween, a fog machine is going to be the icing on the cake. With the eerie smoke and fog, it creates you’ll get an instant atmosphere changer and there’s just no other way that you’ll create the same effect.
Thankfully, fog machines these days have this in mind and they’ve been designed to create completely safe emissions that are fine to have indoors. Most of this comes down to the fog juice that you use within the machine, but the companies that are ahead of the trend understand how important it is to have nontoxic and completely safe liquid in these devices.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
Although these machines and the liquid used in them is nontoxic, that doesn’t mean you don’t have to be careful. Whatever room you decide to put a fog machine in, you’ll want to make sure that it’s well ventilated and has been prepared for the smoke that’s about to take it over.
There are some risks involved using a fog machine inside the house, and some of them might not be as obvious as you think. One risk that has nothing to do with the fog itself is about the furniture and being sure that it’s out of the way as people won’t be able to see. You’ll also want to cover it because the fog may leave a fine film on everything.
The smoke could be too much for some people while the machine is operating and they will need to take a breather. Make sure there’s a clearly marked exit so people can find it, and always put a fog machine in a room that is well ventilated. You’ll still get the same effect but it will give people fresh air to breathe as well.
Finally, you need to shop for the right fog fluid and only ever choose a brand that is nontoxic. It should state on the label that it’s safe around children, as there are a good chance children will be present, so you can relax when you’re using it indoors.
Do Fog Machines Trigger Smoke Alarms?
One of the most common concerns people have is about the smoke alarms in their home and whether they’ll be triggered by the fog that’s created. Unfortunately, there’s no clear cut answer to this as it will all depend on the type of smoke alarm you have and the fog machine you’re using.
Most smoke alarms will not detect the fog as smoke and therefore won’t go off, but for homes with an optical sensing smoke alarm, it definitely will.
Before your event, you’ll want to test out whether or not they are triggered and the consider changing them or removing them just for the time that the fog machine will be on. However, being without a smoke alarm especially at a crowded event isn’t always safe.
Tips For Safe Indoor Fog Machines
When you’re planning a party or event, you want everything to be just right and this includes learning how to work a fog machine. Planning to use one of these effect makers doesn’t require a lot of work, but there are some tips you can follow to ensure it all goes smoothly:
- Clear obstructions out of the way as people will have limited visibility
- Try not to turn the fog machine on at all times to give people a break
- Test out how much fog fills the room and adjust settings to get your desired effect before the event starts
- Use only nontoxic fog fluid that’s been made with FDA approved ingredients that will be safe for inhalation
- Create a clearly marked exit for people who need to leave and have a break
- Always have windows and doors open to ensure fresh air is entering the area
Having Fun In All Types Of Spaces
There’s nothing like the fun atmosphere that a fog machine can create and when you have the right type of space to use one indoors it can be even cooler. Parties, dancefloors, and all other types of events can be instantly transformed with just a few minutes of a fog machine, so as long as you’re using them safely there’s no end to how you can enjoy them.
Preparation is key when using a fog machine so do your planning. Test out how it works indoors, make sure you have ventilation and easy exits for people to find, and always use nontoxic fog juice in your machine. With these few things in place, you can really enjoy the cool effects it creates and let your guests have fun with it, too.
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