| Every home should have working smoke detectors. They are among the most effective ways to protect against fire. Because modern homes often contain synthetic furniture and materials, fires now burn hotter and faster than in the past. Having a working smoke detector can be the difference between life and death during a fire.
A minimum recommended setup includes the following:
- Install a smoke detector inside every bedroom.
- Install one outside each sleeping area, such as in the hallway.
- Install at least one on every level of your home, including the basement.
- Place detectors high on the ceiling or on a high wall, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Avoid installing them near kitchens or bathrooms, where steam or cooking smoke can cause false alarms.
If your smoke detectors are battery-powered, test them every month and replace the batteries as needed, or when the detector chirps. For detectors with sealed 10-year batteries, replace the entire unit when it reaches the end of its service life. Most smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years.
It is strongly recommended to have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors if your home contains any of the following:
- Gas, oil, propane, or wood-burning appliances.
- An attached garage.
- Any fuel-burning heating system or fireplace.
CO detectors should be installed outside sleeping areas and on each level of the home, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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