Working smoke alarms give a household precious time to get out in a fire, and carbon monoxide alarms detect a gas you cannot see or smell. Both only work if they are in the right place, powered and not past their service life.
Key Takeaways
- Install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
- Install CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level, especially if you have fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage.
- Test alarms monthly with the test button.
- Replace smoke alarms 10 years after the manufacture date; CO alarms typically every 5 to 10 years, per the manufacturer.
Where to install smoke alarms
The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms:
- Inside every bedroom
- Outside each separate sleeping area
- On every level of the home, including the basement
Mount them on the ceiling or high on a wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep them away from kitchens and bathrooms where cooking smoke or steam can cause false alarms, typically at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
Where to install CO alarms
Carbon monoxide comes from fuel-burning appliances such as gas furnaces, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces and generators, as well as cars in attached garages. Install CO alarms:
- Outside each sleeping area
- On every level of the home
- According to the manufacturer’s height and placement instructions
Combination smoke and CO alarms are available.
Interconnected alarms
Interconnected alarms sound together when one detects smoke, so someone sleeping upstairs hears an alarm from the basement. Many newer homes have hardwired interconnected alarms; wireless interconnected models are available for existing homes.
Test monthly
Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. If it does not, replace the battery and test again. If it still does not work, replace the alarm.
Batteries
- Alarms with replaceable batteries: change batteries at least once a year, or when the alarm chirps.
- Alarms with sealed 10-year batteries: do not need battery changes, but the whole unit must be replaced at end of life.
- Hardwired alarms usually have a backup battery that also needs replacing.
Replace on schedule
Check the manufacture date on the back of each alarm. Replace smoke alarms 10 years from that date, even if they seem to work. CO alarms have shorter or varying life spans; follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Many alarms chirp or display an end-of-life signal.
Clean gently
Dust can affect sensors. Vacuum around the vents with a soft brush attachment a couple of times a year.
If the CO alarm sounds
- Get everyone, including pets, outside into fresh air immediately.
- Call 911 or the fire department from outside.
- Do not go back inside until responders say it is safe.
Symptoms of CO poisoning, such as headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion, can resemble flu.
Make an escape plan
Plan two ways out of every room, choose a meeting place outside and practise with your household twice a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my alarm chirp? Usually a low battery or end-of-life signal. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.
What type of smoke alarm is best? Ionization and photoelectric alarms detect different types of fires. Fire safety organisations recommend both technologies or dual-sensor alarms.
Do renters need to buy alarms? Rules vary by location. Landlords are often responsible; check your lease and local law.
The bottom line
Put alarms where they are needed, test them monthly, replace batteries and replace units on schedule. It is one of the most important safety tasks in any home.
