NFPA Public Education Division • 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169
Your Source for SAFETY Information
Smoke Alarms
at Homeat Home
Smoke Alarms
•
Smoke alarms should
be installed inside every
bedroom, outside each
sleeping area and on every
level. Smoke alarms should
be connected so when one
sounds, they all sound. Most
homes do not have this level
of protection.
•
Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths
happen in homes with no
smoke alarms or the alarms
are not working.
FACTS
SMOKE ALARMS ARE A KEY PART
of a home fire escape plan. When there is
a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke
alarms give you early warning so you can
get outside quickly.
SAFETY TIPS
KKK Install smoke alarms inside and outside each
bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every
level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
KKK Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
KKK It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms.
When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
KKK Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press
the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
KKK There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke
alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires.
Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about
smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of
alarms in the home.
KKK A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on
a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to
reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet
(3 meters) from the stove.
KKK People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use
special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and
bed shakers.
KKK Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years
old.
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www.nfpa.org/education
Florida State Fire Marshal