Smoke Detectors

Installation

• Install a smoke detector on each level of your home.
• The detector should be centrally located between the bedrooms.
• Place smoke detectors in each bedroom.
• If you, or someone in your home is deaf or hard of hearing, consider installing an alarm that combines flashing lights, vibration and/or sound.
• Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings (remember, smoke rises). Ceiling mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches away from the nearest wall; wall-mounted alarms should be installed four to 12 inches away from the ceiling.
• If you have ceilings that are pitched, install the alarm near the ceiling's highest point.
• Don't install smoke alarms near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere with their operation.

Test and Maintain

• Test detectors once a month.
• Most units should be vacuumed once a year to remove cobwebs and dust that may impair a detector's sensitivity.
• Never paint smoke alarms. Paint, stickers, or other decorations could keep the alarms from working.
• Smoke alarms don't last forever. Replace your smoke alarms every ten years. 

Replace Batteries Semiannually

• Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery.
• Whenever your change your clocks to or from daylight saving time you should also change the batteries in your smoke detectors.

What to Do if Your Alarm Sounds

• Don't try to fight the fire yourself.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible.
• Call 9-1-1 as soon as you are out of the house.

What to Do if Your Detector Makes a Chirping Sound

• A chirping sound usually indicates a low battery. Replace the battery.

The information provided is a guideline only. To install, test and clean detector, follow the manufacturers instructions.

Download for free:

Smoke Alarms Safety Tips

Smoke Alarms for Hard of Hearing/Deaf

Additional information available at Texas Department of Insurance.