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Smoke Detectors

Every home should be protected by smoke detectors. What follows is a brief guide to the selection, installation and maintenance of smoke detectors as well as useful links.

Why Smoke Detectors?

Most dwelling fires occur at night, while people are asleep. This makes early fire detection and warning especially important. Smoke detectors respond quickly to the majority of dwelling fires which can provide the extra time needed to safely escape and notify the fire department.

Detector Selection

Purchasing: Whichever detectors you purchase, be sure they are labeled by a nationally recognized fire testing laboratory. The most prominent of these Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Factory Mutual (FM).

Types: Smoke detectors typically come in three models: battery operated, hardwired into your house's electrical system, or hardwired with battery backup.

Detector Installation

Smoke detectors are generally installed on the ceiling outside of a bedroom, and with one on each level of a living unit. Most manufacturers recommend installing detectors on the ceiling or on the walls between 6 and 12 inches below the ceiling. Make sure that you do not place detectors within 6 inches of where the wall and ceiling meet. This area is referred to as the “Dead Air Space” since it only gets a very little air circulation.

Routine Detector Maintenance

Checking batteries: Batteries weaken with age, and must be checked and replaced at regular intervals (usually every 9 – 12 months). Battery powered units that are listed by UL or FM will generate a beeping sound to indicate when the batteries need to be replaced.

Clean you detector: Dust can damage your detectors sensitivity. Clean your units at least once a year.

Test your detector: Test the detectors by pushing the test switch. Do this at least once a month.

For more information, go to First Alert