How Many Smoke Detectors Are Required in a Home?

Function

• Smoke detectors alert occupants to the presence of smoke and possibly fire. This warning, provided by a loud alarm, signals the need to evacuate the residence immediately.

Location

• Place smoke alarms in appropriate locations on each level of your residence. Make sure to place a smoke detector in every often-occupied room, in the hallways leading to the bedrooms and in the basement. Install smoke detectors every 30 feet in long hallways. Put a smoke detector at the top of each set of stairs as well.

Considerations

• Pay attention to the suggestions offered by the manufacturer when installing smoke detectors. Refrain from placing smoke detectors near air vents, ceiling corners, windows and doors. Test each smoke detector on a regular basis and change the batteries as often as necessary.