Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area.  You should have alarms on every level of the home including the basement.  Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.  It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms so when one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.  

When purchasing smoke alarms, you should be aware that there are two main types of alarms, Ionization and Photoelectric.  Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to have both types of alarms in your home.

When installing smoke alarms they should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.  You will want to keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.

You should test all of your smoke alarms at least once a month. This is easy to do, just press the test button and the alarm should sound if it is working properly.

It's good to get in the habit of changing your smoke alarm batteries twice a year.  This can be done when you move the clocks forward or back.  You should also replace your smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.