Smoke Alarm Placement

A smoke alarm is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you'll own. As its name implies, it is designed to detect smoke particles in the air, alerting you to a fire in its earliest stages and giving you a chance to get out of the house.

Remember that a smoke alarm is a functional device, not a home decorating accessory, so don't treat it like one. While it may look better hidden in the corner of a room, or to the side, a smoke alarm must always be placed where it can work most effectively.

Smoke rises, so it's critical to attach the alarms up on or near the ceiling (see manufacturer's recommendations).

You should install your alarms on each level of your home (including the basement), in hallways adjacent to stairs or bedrooms.

Avoid placing smoke alarms near furnace rooms, kitchens, and washrooms, where steam can accidentally activate it. The alarm could end up sounding so often that you could ignore it, or respond slowly, in an actual fire.

You should also test your alarm monthly to make sure it's working. Use a candle, cigarette, or incense to introduce smoke into the alarm until it sounds.

If the alarm is battery-powered and doesn't sound, replace the battery and try again. If it's electrically-operated and doesn't sound, check the fuse and try again. In either case, if the alarm still isn't working, replace the unit. A dead unit is worse than none at all, as it can give you a false sense of security.

To ensure proper operation, replace the batteries at least once a year, or when your hear intermittent beeping. Don't use rechargeable batteries for smoke alarms, when they lose their charge they don't emit a warning signal.

As part of your maintenance, clean out the alarm detection chamber and protective cover with the soft brush attachment on your vacuum every month or so. When smoke alarms get plugged up with dirt and dust, they can become inoperable - even if the batteries are still good.

Read the manufacturer's instructions for installation, maintenance, and testing information. And only use smoke alarms tested and approved by CSA or ULC.