Where to Install Fire Alarms in the Home

Rules of Thumb

• Fire alarms should be installed on every floor of the home, including attics and basements, as well as every bedroom. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) also recommends placing fire alarms in interior hallways that lead to bedrooms or sleeping areas.

Wall Placement

• To detect rising smoke adequately, install your fire alarm directly on the ceiling or high on the wall. Smoke alarms will detect smoldering or flaming fires from this height, as smoke rises.

Where Not to Install

• Ionization smoke detectors, which detect rapidly spreading or flaming fires, should not be placed in areas of the home that may cause a false alarm, such as kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms or home saunas.

Interconnected Alarms

• In larger or multiple-level homes, the U.S. CPSC suggests an interconnected alarm, which sets off a signal to each detector if one fire alarm sounds.

Fire Escape

• A family or household fire escape plan is just as important as fire alarm placement, according to the CPSC. Families should pre-arrange two escape routes out of each room, as well as a meeting place once outside.