The third edition of European Smoke Alarm Day, powered by the European Fire Safety Alliance and the Federation of European Fire Officers, takes place today – November 22nd, as part of European Fire Safety Week 2024.
By installing smoke alarms you will have early warning of a fire, which gives you time to act before you and your family are overcome by dangerous smoke and fumes. Below you can find some useful advice on smoke alarms to help keep you and your family safe.
How many smoke alarms do I need?
In a standard two-storey house, four detectors should be installed – smoke detectors on each landing and in the living room and a heat detector in the kitchen.
Where do I fit the smoke alarms?
On the ceiling as close to the centre of the room as possible. Make sure that you can hear the smoke alarm at night with the doors closed.
How often should I test the smoke alarms?
Smoke alarms require very little maintenance but to ensure it operates when needed:
- once a week, test the smoke alarm by pushing and holding the test button until it activates
- every six months vacuum and brush the casing to get rid of dust
- every year change the battery (unless it is a 10 year battery)
- every 10 years replace the smoke alarm