Michelle, welcome to the cruise and keep your seat belt fastened at all times, in case of unexpected turbulence
We discussed smokehoods about two months ago in the SLF/PAX forum (I think) and it should be possible to find it in the archive. I have been a PAX for 35 years and been on many carriers. I always listen to 'the dance' as the cabin crew refer to it. If I know the carrier and the machine well, then I might just double check. For example, I have done more than 30 sectors with easyJet in the last nine months or so!
I have a smoke hood and, as someone else said, I expect to use it in an hotel before I need it on board. If, when time comes, it fails to save my life - then I have taken all possible precautions.
I am not concerned about how long it will take to put on as I am always aware of the aircraft and where we are. I am always amused by pax who are surprised when the machine lands! If the landing is a little 'firm' they get all of a twitter!