Smoke Alarms


Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you an early warning – alerting you to get outside quickly!

  • Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home.smoke_alarm_saves_lifes_311200912_std
  • Test smoke alarms using the test button at least once a month or as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Change the battery in your smoke alarm once a year or if the low battery alarm chirps.
  • Be aware that some smoke alarms will also make a chirping sound if the unit needs to be replaced. For more information about the battery alarm and the replacement alarm read the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. This helps keep smoke alarms working well.
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old. Immediately replace any smoke alarm that does not respond properly when tested.
  • Make sure everyone in the home recognizes the sound of a smoke alarm; understands what the warning of the sound of a smoke alarm means; and knows how to respond.
  • When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.

Did you know?

  • Working smoke alarms increase your chances of escaping from a home fire.
  • For the best protection use smoke alarms that can be interconnected by hard-wiring or wireless technology. When one interconnected smoke alarm sounds they all sound.