Burglar alarms get the attention, but fire is the bigger danger to most households. Roughly three of every five home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or none that work, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as quoted by fire departments. This guide covers where to put smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, how to maintain them and how they connect to a security system. It is part of our complete guide to home security alarm systems.
Where to install smoke alarms
- Inside every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement, according to NFPA guidance published by fire departments.
- On the ceiling or high on a wall.
- Not in kitchens or bathrooms. NFPA advises keeping them at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms.
- Interconnected, so when one sounds they all sound.
The Red Cross notes that for new homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every level, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. First Alert says an average two-story, three-bedroom home needs at least five smoke alarms and four CO alarms.
Carbon monoxide alarms
CO is a gas you cannot see, taste or smell. Fire departments citing NFPA advise installing CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level, using alarms listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Combination smoke and CO alarms are available.
Maintenance schedule
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Test with the test button | At least monthly. The Red Cross says the test button checks all electronic functions and is safer than testing with a flame |
| Replace batteries | When the alarm chirps, or twice a year for standard batteries; 10-year sealed batteries need none |
| Clean dust and cobwebs | Monthly with a vacuum, says the Red Cross |
| Replace smoke alarms | Every 10 years from the manufacture date printed on the unit |
| Replace CO alarms | Per manufacturer: 5 to 10 years depending on the model |
A First Alert survey found more than 60 percent of consumers do not test their alarms monthly. If an alarm goes off while cooking, use the hush button; the Red Cross says never to disable it.
Linking alarms to your security system
- Monitored smoke and CO detectors can summon the fire department even if nobody is home; see professional monitoring.
- Smart detectors send app alerts and can integrate with a hub; see sensors explained.
- Insurers sometimes discount monitored smoke detection; see home security and insurance.
- Whatever you install, rehearse an escape plan; see emergency preparedness and child safety.
Fire safety checklist
- Smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on every level.
- CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level.
- Monthly test, and the manufacture date is under 10 years old.
- Batteries replaced on schedule.
- Everyone knows two ways out of every room.
- When an alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace a smoke alarm?
Every 10 years, counted from the manufacture date printed on the alarm, not from when you installed it.
Are combination smoke and CO alarms okay?
Yes, as long as they are listed and placed where both functions work. Check the instructions.
Why does my alarm chirp?
A short chirp usually means a low battery or an alarm at end of life. Replace the battery, and replace the alarm if it is more than 10 years old.
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