The chance of fires increase as the days get colder. To keep themselves warm, parents use fireplaces, space heaters, or even make oven-cooked meals to warm the home. Even if you make sure you practice good safety measures, you can’t know for sure that your neighbors do. That’s why you need to make sure your smoke alarms are in good working order.
Ask Yourself These 4 Questions
- Are your smoke alarms in the right locations?
- Do they have functioning batteries?
- Does the smoke sensor work?
- How old are the smoke alarms?
Important Smoke Alarm Locations
- In the area adjacent to the bedrooms
- On every floor of the home, including the basement and attic
Check your area’s fire codes. Often when multiple smoke alarms are required, all units must be wired together.
Are The Batteries Still Good?
- Often, your smoke alarm will emit an annoying beep when batteries need to be replaced.
- It’s a good idea to develop a habit to replace the batteries twice a year.
- Many people do it when it’s time to change the clocks.
- Otherwise, you can use lithium batteries.
- Those last for 10-15 years.
Does The Smoke Sensor Work?
It’s not enough to just press the test button to check your battery. That only confirms that the battery, electronics, and alert system are operating.
- Here’s a good way to test the smoke sensor.
- Hold a candle by the sensor.
- Light it and quickly extinguish it.
- The smoke should set off the sensor.
- If you don’t feel comfortable with candles, you can use an aerosol can of smoke alarm test spray.
- This can also simulate smoke.
Life Expectancy Of A Smoke Alarm
- Generally, smoke alarms are good for 10 years.
- After this time, it’s not unusual for sensors to quit responding.
