What Are the Guidelines for the Placement of Smoke Alarms?

Types of Fire Alarms

• Fire is detected with two types of fire alarm. The fast-moving fire that is fed by highly combustible materials such as grease, cleaning solutions, newspapers, flammable liquids and paint requires an ionization alarm. The intense flames produce heat with little smoke, which the ionization alarm can detect. A photoelectric alarm is designed to detect heavy smoke from a slow-burning fire. The smoldering fire in a mattress, living room furniture or countertop may last for hours before the unit bursts into flame. Thick smoke will permeate the air, causing a dangerous atmosphere for anyone in the building.

Maximum Coverage

• Purchase and install a smoke alarm in every living area and hallway on every floor of the home. The quick alert to smoke or fire in each room of the building will give each person a chance to safely escape the burning building. The alarm may give the homeowner sufficient warning to douse a fire with a fire extinguisher and thereby minimize damage. Affix alarms to the ceiling or walls in a room or hallway. The basement and attic area also must have the security of a smoke alarm system. Place the alarm in an area that allows for air circulation. An alarm should never be secured in the corner of a room ceiling.

Minimum Coverage

• Place alarms on each floor of the home or building. Secure alarms in each bedroom and the hallway outside of each sleeping area of the house. It is essential to have an alarm in or near the kitchen. Maintain the alarms to keep them fully functional. Change batteries or press the test button on a set schedule to be assured that each alarm is in working order.