Testing your Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

Ensure your business is safe, install and test smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly.

Don't let the thought of smoke detectors and fire alarms keep you up at night. Testing your smoke alarms is just one of many safety practices that can help you sleep well. In fact, smoke alarm malfunctions are one of the most common reasons homes go up in flames.

Smoke Alarms should be placed on every level of the home

Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, including the basement. They should also be located in each bedroom, or hallway.

If you have a fireplace or wood stove, check to see if there is an automatic shutoff switch connected to your smoke alarm. If so, this will stop air from circulating through your house when there is a fire in your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

Test your Smoke Alarms Regularly

Test your smoke alarms and fire alarms regularly. It's a good idea to test them monthly. When you're testing your smoke alarm, do it when your family or employees are there so you can discuss any questions someone might have for evacuation planning.

Test them again right before leaving town for an extended period of time like Thanksgiving or Christmas break so that if something happens while you're gone (like burglars breaking in), there'll be no delay in getting help by calling 911.

Replace Alarms

If there is any doubt your smoke detectors or fire alarms are going to malfunction, it would be smart to look into replacement options. If you’re replacing your smoke detectors and fire alarms, it’s important to remember that new models are equipped with 10-year batteries. This will help ensure that your devices are working properly for the next decade. It’s also essential for the safety of your family and home.

After installing a new device, you should test it by pressing its test button or pulling on its test strip (if there is one). If there is no indication that the smoke detector or fire alarm has been activated after five minutes, contact a professional to inspect them for possible issues.

Ensuring your family or business is safe, it is important to test your smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly to keep your them safe. If you are in need of more information, contact a professional fire alarm specialist.