Are your smoke alarms working?

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Posted on Sep 20 2025 in Features, Newton County REMC
smoke alarm graphic

The U. S. Fire Administration recommends installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of a home, including the basement. This is a fire safety precaution that all homeowners and landlords in your community need to take to protect residents from fire. Here are some common questions about home smoke alarms.

WHAT TYPES OF SMOKE ALARMS CAN I BUY?

Many brands of smoke alarms are on the market, but they fall under two basic types: ionization and photoelectric.

Ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms detect different types of fires. Since no one can predict what kind of fire might start in their home, the U. S. Fire Administration recommends that every home and place where people sleep have:

  • Both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms, or
  • Dual-sensor smoke alarms contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
  • Choose interconnected smoke alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound.

There are also alarms for people with hearing loss. These alarms may have strobe lights that flash and vibrate to alert those who cannot hear standard smoke alarms when they sound.

WHERE DO I PUT SMOKE ALARMS IN MY HOME?

  • Inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
  • On every level of the home. They should be interconnected, so when one sounds, they all sound.
  • On the ceiling or high on the wall. Check the manufacturers instructions for the best place for your alarm.
  • Only qualified electricians should install hardwired smoke alarms.

Some fire departments will install battery-operated smoke alarms in your home at no cost. Contact your local fire departments nonemergency phone number for more information.

HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MY SMOKE ALARM?

A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and regularly tested. Follow the manufacturers instructions for maintaining your smoke alarms. Below are some general maintenance tips.

Smoke alarm powered by a 9-volt battery

  • Test the alarm monthly.
  • Replace the batteries at least once every year.
  • Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
  • Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium-ion (or long-life) battery
  • Test the alarm monthly.
  • Replace the entire smoke alarm according to the manufacturers instructions.

Smoke alarm that is hardwired into your home’s electrical system

  • Test the alarm monthly.
  • Replace the backup battery at least once every year.
  • Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.