Smoke alarms are small measure of safety that can save lives. This simple guide will assist you in ensuring your home & loved ones are protected with working, properly installed & maintained smoke alarms.
Installation:
The most reliable type of smoke alarms is hardwired with battery backup, rather than solely battery-operated devices.
For the most protection, smoke alarms should be interconnected, meaning they all sound if one detects smoke (many devices can do this wirelessly now!)
Look for combination smoke alarms that utilize both ionization & photoelectric alarms (ionization is responsive to flames & photoelectric is responsive to smoldering fire.)
Purchase smoke alarms from reputable retailers that show a label proving they were tested in a nationally-recognized laboratory.
Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area & on every level of the house.
If possible, smoke alarms should be mounted in a ceiling. If they must be mounted on a wall, locate 12 inches below the ceiling.
Avoid installing alarms near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows & ceiling fans.
Install smoke alarms a minimum of 10 feet away from cooking appliances (this limits the chance of nuisance alarms!)
Maintenance:
Test your smoke alarm at least once a month by pressing the TEST button.
Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year (per the manufacturer’s instructions).
If it is beeping/‘chirping’, replace the batteries ASAP! This sound indicates low battery.
Replace your smoke alarms at least every 10 years (per the manufacturer’s instructions).
Occasionally dust the exterior of the alarm to remove dust & cobwebs.
Never paint over a smoke alarm!