1. TEST Test your smoke detectors at least once a
month to make sure they are working. Most smoke detectors are equipped with
a test button. If this button is pushed and held, the detector should make
an audible noise. If the detector does not sound, replace the detector.
NOTE: If your smoke detectors do not have a test button, contact the fire
department for direction. You should NEVER use an open flame to test smoke
detectors other options are available.
2.
CHANGE If equipped with batteries,
change the batteries twice a year. A good way to remember this is when you
change your clocks for daylight savings time, change your batteries.
3.
CLEAN
Use your vacuum attachment to vacuum around the
perimeter of the detector to rid the detector from any dust particles.
Built up dust particles can alter the detectors sensitivity level and may
not actuate appropriately in the event of an actual emergency
4. REPLACE
After ten years of service, replace the smoke detector. Over the course of
ten years your smoke detectors have worked over 87, 000 hours.
Additionally, the National Fire Protection Association and most
manufacturers require that detectors get replaced after ten years of
service.
TO SEE IF YOU HAVE ENOUGH SMOKE
DETECTORS, USE ONE OF THE GUIDES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK THAT RELATES TO
WHEN YOUR HOUSE WAS CONSTRUCTED.
BEFORE 1975
BETWEEN 1975 AND 1998 AFTER
1998
