SMOKE ALARMS

What You Need to Know

Prevent Fire.

Save Lives.
PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY TODAY

In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early 

warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and those of your 

loved ones by providing the chance to escape.

Your Smoke Alarm Quiz

The Smoke Alarms in My Home:

Y N are installed on every level, especially near sleeping areas.

Y N are tested once a month.

Y N have their batteries replaced with new ones at least once a year.

Y N are vacuumed over and kept free of dust. 

Y N

have their batteries replaced and are retested, should they start making a 

"chirping noise."

Y N are replaced with new smoke alarms every ten years.
Did you answer "NO" to any of the questions?

If so, keep reading to learn the answers to the most common questions about lifesaving 

smoke alarms.

WHY SHOULD MY HOME HAVE SMOKE ALARMS?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are 

the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing 

an early warning signal--so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best 

safety features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family and your home.

OKAY, WHERE DO I PUT THEM?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin 

late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and 

outside sleeping areas.

Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or above eye level on the walls. Since 

smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide 

you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

WHERE WOULD I GET SMOKE ALARMS?

Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you are 

unsure where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on a nonemergency telephone number) and they will provide you with some suggestions. Some fire 

departments offer smoke alarms for little or no cost.
ARE SMOKE ALARMS HARD TO INSTALL?

Not a bit. In most cases, all you will need is a screwdriver. Many brands are self-adhesive and 

will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. However, be sure to follow 

the directions from the manufacturer because each brand is different. If you are uncomfortable 

standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. Some fire departments will actually install 

a smoke alarm in your home for you. Call your local fire department (again, on a non-emergency 

telephone number) if you have problems installing a smoke alarm.

HOW DO I KEEP MY SMOKE ALARM WORKING?

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember:

1. Simply replace the batteries at least once a year. Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday 

and replace the batteries each year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market 

come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, 

thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a 

"chirping" noise, replace the batteries and retest it.

2. Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over 

and around your smoke alarm regularly.
WHAT IF THE ALARM GOES OFF WHILE I'M COOKING?

Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to cooking or other nonfire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. 

Instead, clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm 

may have to be moved to a new location.

HOW LONG WILL MY SMOKE ALARM LAST?

About eight-to-ten years, after which they should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, 

smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the purchase date with a marker on the inside of 

your unit. That way, you'll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer's 

instructions for replacement.

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?

Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard wired." This means they are connected to the 

household electrical system and may or may not have battery backup. It's important to test 

every smoke alarm monthly. And always use new batteries when replacing old ones.

Prevent Fire.

Save Lives.

http://www.usfa.fema.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency

United States Fire Administration
The United States Fire Administration would like to remind you of some important fire safety 

and prevention information:

 Plan and practice escape plans several times a year.

 Make sure your whole family knows when and how to call emergency telephone 

numbers.

L220, 6/01

Federal Emergency Management Agency

United States Fire Administration