Working smoke alarms are one of the most important fire-safety features in any home. They can provide the early warning you and your family need to escape safely when a fire occurs.
Where Should Smoke Alarms Be Installed?
Smoke alarms should be installed in the following locations:
Inside every bedroom.
Outside each separate sleeping area.
On every level of the home, including the basement.
Install alarms on the ceiling or high on a wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions. When possible, use interconnected smoke alarms so that when one alarm detects smoke, every alarm in the home sounds.
Test Your Alarms Every Month
Press the test button on every smoke alarm at least once a month. Make sure everyone in the home recognizes the sound and knows what to do when an alarm activates.
If an alarm does not sound during a test, replace its battery or the entire alarm immediately. A smoke alarm with a missing or dead battery cannot protect your family.
Replace Batteries When Needed
Replace standard removable batteries at least once every year.
Replace a battery immediately when an alarm begins chirping.
For sealed 10-year alarms, replace the entire unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember that hardwired alarms usually contain backup batteries that also require maintenance.
Never remove an alarm’s battery or disable an alarm because of cooking smoke or steam. Use the alarm’s hush button, ventilate the area, and follow the manufacturer’s placement instructions.
Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years
Smoke alarms do not last forever. Replace each alarm 10 years after its manufacture date, even if it still sounds when tested. The manufacture date is normally printed on the back or side of the unit.
If you cannot determine an alarm’s age, replacing it is the safest choice.
Make Sure Everyone Can Be Alerted
Specialized alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These devices may include flashing strobe lights or vibrating equipment that can provide an effective warning during an emergency.
When a Smoke Alarm Sounds
Treat every alarm as a real emergency. Leave the building immediately, stay outside, and call 911 from a safe location. Do not go back inside until emergency personnel say it is safe.
Monthly Smoke Alarm Checklist
Test every alarm.
Check for chirping or warning indicators.
Confirm that alarms have not been covered, removed, or disabled.
Make sure exits and escape routes remain clear.
Practice your household fire escape plan.
A few minutes of maintenance each month can help protect everyone in your home.
Safety guidance is based on recommendations from the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association.