Smoke Detectors

Swirling white smoke against a dark background.

Smoke Detectors 

What You Need to Know

Smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half, according to the NFPA. But only if they work. One-third of smoke alarms in U.S. homes don't function because of missing, disconnected, or dead batteries.

Where They Should Be

  • Outside each sleeping area (in the hallway), and inside each bedroom (if possible)

  • On every level of your home, including the basement

  • In homes with high ceilings or split-levels, follow manufacturer instructions for proper placement

Placement tips:

  • Mount on the ceiling or high on the wall (smoke rises)

  • Keep at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances to reduce false alarms

  • Don't place near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere

What to Do Right Now

Test every smoke detector in your home:

  1. Press and hold the test button for a few seconds

  2. You should hear a loud, piercing alarm

  3. If the sound is weak or absent, replace the battery immediately

  4. If it still doesn't work after a new battery, replace the entire unit

Replace batteries:

  • At least once a year (many people do this when daylight saving time changes)

  • Some newer detectors have 10-year sealed batteries—check your model

  • Write the battery replacement date on the detector with a marker

Replace old detectors:

  • Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years (check the manufacture date on the back)

  • If you can't find a date, replace it to be safe

  • Choose an alarm that simplifies your life whether it’s a smart alarm,  a carbon monoxide detection combo, or an interconnected alarm system where when one sounds, they all sound

Set a reminder:

  • Add "Test Smoke Detectors" to your calendar every 6 months. Make it a family ritual, ex: pizza night + safety check.

Resources

Home Safety Essentials