Smoke Alarms

Choosing an Alarm

• Buy smoke alarms that have been tested by an independent laboratory.
• Smoke alarms can be battery powered or wired to run on household current with a battery back-up.

Installing an Alarm

• One alarm is recommended for every level of a home.
• Place alarms within ten feet of the family sleeping area and within four to twelve inches of the ceiling. Place ceiling mounted alarms within four inches of the nearest wall.
• Avoid placing smoke alarms near kitchens, bathrooms, or garages in order to prevent nuisance alarms.

Maintaining Smoke Alarms

• Never disable an alarm. If it constantly “chirps” replace the battery or the alarm.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.
• Replace batteries in an alkaline battery-powered alarm once a year. Many new alarms contain 10-year lithium powered batteries, which last the life of the unit.
• Replace smoke alarm units every ten years.

Planning an Escape Route

• Everyone should know at least two ways out of a room.
• Keep windows and doors free of objects that could block your path.
• Agree on an outside meeting place for family members once they escape.
• Once out, stay out! Use a neighbor’s phone to call 911.
• Practice your escape route at least two times a year.