# How to Install Residential Smoke Alarms
Residential smoke alarms save lives daily. However, 14 percent of U.S. homes do not have smoke alarms. In addition, a third of smoke alarms in U.S. homes do not work, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Those who are protected by smoke alarms improve their chances of surviving by 50 percent.
Things You'll Need
- Smoke alarm
- Batteries
- Screw(s)
- Screwdrivers
Instructions
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1
Choose a location for the smoke alarm. Alarms are generally placed outside or inside each bedroom. Install at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home or apartment.
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2
Purchase a smoke alarm from among three types: battery-powered, hard-wired and plug-in. The easiest option to install is battery-powered.
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3
Make sure the smoke alarm has been approved by an independent testing laboratory. This guarantees the alarm is functioning and operational.
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4
Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions. If your smoke alarm is battery-powered, insert batteries. Also call your local fire department for assistance.
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5
Test your smoke alarm(s) weekly. It can only save your life if it is working. Clean alarm(s) yearly.
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1
Smoke Detectors
- How to Silence a Smoke Alarm
- How to Install Fire Alarms in California
- How to Install Interconnected Smoke Alarms
- How to Turn Off Smoke Alarms
- How to Troubleshoot Smoke Alarms
- How to Test Kidde Smoke Alarms
- How to Install a Smoke Alarm Battery Backup
- How to Install a Smoke Alarm Battery
- How to Interconnect Smoke Alarms
- How to Deactivate a Smoke Alarm
- How to Dispose of Smoke Alarms in Missouri
- How to Replace Smoke Alarms
