3 Things You Should Know About Smoke Alarms

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

How often should you change the batteries in your smoke alarm?

Three Things to Know About Smoke Alarms

While it is a small device that you likely think little about, the smoke alarm is an important part of every Wildwood Lake, TN, home. It can alert you to a fire in time to prevent serious damage or allow you to safely leave the building in the event of a serious blaze. There are a few important pieces of information that you should know about this useful item.

1. How Many Alarms Do You Need?
The number of smoke detectors needed in your house depends on how large it is. Each floor should have at least one alarm. Also, make sure that there is an alarm in each individual bedroom as well as one outside of each sleeping area. If you have a basement or attic, these should have their own alarms as well.

2. How Should You Maintain Them?
Keeping your alarms in working condition can help prevent the need for fire damage remediation and serious repairs by quickly making you aware of a conflagration. Every smoke alarm should be tested at least monthly to ensure it is functioning properly. Dust and debris should be removed to prevent the sensors from malfunctioning. Most alarms will need to be replaced at least every 10 years.

3. How Often Should You Change the Batteries?
Depending on the type of smoke detector you have, this varies. Devices that use traditional 9-volt batteries need to have them replaced every six to 12 months. This includes hardwired alarms that use batteries as a backup in case of a power outage. If your alarm uses a lithium battery, this does not need to be replaced.
Having a smoke alarm in each area of your home as well as properly maintaining them is a vital way to help keep you and your family safe if you experience a fire. Test them regularly and change the batteries often to keep these useful little devices ready in case of an emergency.