Smoke Detector Information

Every Level of the House

• There should be a smoke detector on every level of the house, including the basement. It's especially important that they are installed near bedrooms.

Ceilings

• Install smoke detectors near the ceiling because smoke rises. Don't place them where a draft could interrupt their detection, including near vents, doors and windows.

Paint on Alarms

• Don't paint over smoke alarms--paint interferes with their sensitivity to smoke.

Optional Measure

• An optional measure is to hardwire all the smoke alarms to go off when one detector sounds the alarm. Install smoke alarms that flash or vibrate if someone who is hearing-impaired lives in the house.

Ionization and Photoelectric

• Ionization alarms work best to detect flames; photoelectric alarms will sound when fire is smoldering and smoky.

Regular Testing

• Test the batteries monthly and replace them at least once a year. Some people choose to change batteries during the winter and spring time changes or on their birthday.