Test Your Detectors for Life

Smoke detectors are the first line of defense against deadly fire. Having a working smoke detector in your home cuts your risk of dying in a fire nearly in half. In a fire every second is needed to get out safely. Early warning from a smoke detector can make the difference between surviving a fire and dying in one.

Tips for installing your smoke detectors correctly:

• Install smoke detectors Listed by a qualified testing laboratory on every level of your home, including the basement. Make sure there is a detector in or near every sleeping area.
• Mount smoke detectors high on ceilings or walls. Remember, smoke rises! Ceiling-mounted detectors should be installed at least four inches away from the nearest wall; wall-mounted detectors should be installed four to 12 inches away from the ceiling.  If you have questions, contact your local fire department.
• Don't install smoke detectors near windows, outside doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere wither their operation.
• Don't paint your smoke detectors; paint or other decorations could effect their operation.

Tips for keeping your smoke detectors working properly:           

• Test your smoke detectors at least once a month by using the detectors' "test button."
• Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors regularly, or as soon as it "chirps," warning that the battery is low. Reminder: "Change your clocks, change your batteries!"
• Regularly vacuuming or dusting your smoke detectors and following manufacturer instructions can help keep them working properly.
• Replace your smoke detectors every 10 years.
• Never "borrow" a battery from a smoke detector.
• Make sure that everyone in your home can hear and recognize the alarm sound your detector(s) makes and how to react immediately. 

Snohomish County Fire Marshal
Michael W. McCrary, Fire Marshal