Smoke Detector Information

Why should my home have smoke alarms?

Smoke alarms save lives. They can detect a fire early, and alert consumers, giving them valuable time to escape. 

Despite that well-known fact, about two-thirds of fire deaths take place in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms, e.g., smoke alarms with no batteries or dead batteries. Every year, there are more than 300,000 residential fires.

How can I prevent fires in my home?

• Install smoke alarms in your home. Replace batteries annually.
• Never leave cooking equipment unattended. 
• Have a professional inspect your heating, cooling, and water appliances annually.
• Inspect electrical cords for signs of wear, cracks, or age, and keep lighting away from combustibles.  
• Use caution with candles, lighters, matches, and smoking materials near upholstered furniture, mattresses, and bedding.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of young children. 
• Have a fire escape plan and practice it so family members know what to do and where to meet if there’s a fire in your home.

Where would I get smoke alarms?

Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. Make sure the alarm you buy is UL-listed. If you are unsure where to buy one in your community, call us and we can provide you with some suggestions. 

Where should smoke alarms be installed in my home?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area. The number of smoke alarms will depend on the size of your home. 

Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling on side walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Where should smoke alarms be installed in my home?

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember.

• Simply replace the batteries at least once a year. (Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday and replace the batteries each year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a “chirping” noise, replace the batteries and reset it).
• Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.

How long will my smoke alarm last?

About eight-to-ten years, after which it should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the purchase date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you’ll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement. Find out more on the NFPA’s web site.