Smoke Alarms
Smoke Alarms Save Lives — Make Sure Yours Work!
Smoke alarms are one of the most effective and affordable ways to protect your family from fire. But they only work if they’re properly installed, tested, and maintained.
Why Smoke Alarms Matter
Most fatal home fires happen at night, when people are asleep. Smoke spreads fast and can fill a home in minutes – long before flames reach you. A working smoke alarm gives you the early warning you need to escape safely.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re unsure whether your smoke alarms are working properly or need help installing new ones, contact the Saint Anthony Fire Department. We offer free home safety surveys, that includes smoke alarm installations.
Remember:
Working smoke alarms cut your risk of dying in a home fire in half.
Check yours today – and keep your family safe tomorrow.
Types of Smoke Alarms
There are two main types of smoke alarms, and each detects fire in a different way:
- Ionization Smoke Alarms
- Respond more quickly to flaming fires, such as a grease fire in the kitchen or a rapidly spreading fire fueled by paper.
- Great for hallways, living rooms, or areas near combustible materials.
- Photoelectric Smoke Alarms
- Respond more quickly to smoldering fires, such as a cigarette burning on furniture or electrical wiring overheating.
- Ideal for bedrooms and areas near kitchens (they’re less likely to cause nuisance alarms from cooking smoke).
Best protection: Install both types – of alarms or choose a dual-sensor alarm that uses both technologies in one unit.
Installation Tips
- Place smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
- Install alarms on the ceiling or high on the wall, at least 10 inches from corners.
- Avoid placing alarms too close to kitchens or bathrooms to reduce false alarms.
Testing and Maintenance
- Test every smoke alarm monthly by pressing the test button until you hear a loud beep.
- Replace batteries at least once a year (unless your alarm has a sealed 10-year battery).
- Vacuum around vents and openings twice a year to remove dust and cobwebs.
- Replace the entire alarm every 10 years, even if it still beeps when tested – sensors wear out over time.
When to Replace
If your smoke alarm:
- Chirps even after replacing the battery
- Over 10 years old
- Doesn’t sound during a test
…it’s time for a new one. Modern smoke alarms are inexpensive and easy to install – some models even connect to your smartphone for alerts.
Did you know?
Our Fire Department provides a free home safety survey to residents. We will come check all of your smoke alarms and replace if needed. To schedule a FREE home safety survey, call 612-782-3400