Use and Care Guide

SMOKE ALARMS AT HOME
PLACE
FOR A
SAFER
PLACE
FOR A SAFER
SAFETY TIPS
• Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and
sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
Install alarms in the basement.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one
smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test
button to be sure the alarm is working.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are
quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are
quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use both
types of alarms in the home.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep
smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms.
They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special
alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
Source: NFPA
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.
FACTS!
!
Smoke alarms should
be installed inside
every bedroom,
outside each sleeping
area and on every level.
Smoke alarms should be
connected so when one
sounds, they all sound.
Most homes do not have
this level of protection.
!
Roughly 3 out of 5
fire deaths happen in
homes with no smoke
alarms or the alarms are
not working.