You've heard all the statistics about how many people die in home fires every year, but if you're like most of us, this hasn't motivated you. Batteries are easier to replace than people. Don't neglect your smoke alarms.
WHAT ?
Test and clean your smoke alarms.
WHEN ?
Press the test button once a month, but we'll only remind you every six months.
Test your alarms with smoke at least twice a year.
Clean your alarms at least twice a year.
Replace the battery once a year.
WHY ?
We don't want to get really heavy, but fires kill.
HOW ?
Press the test button. This verifies that the unit has power and an audible alarms, but it does not guarantee smoke detection.
Blow smoke into the unit. It should take a minimal amount to activate the alarms. The smoke can come from a cigarette, a candle, or preferably an aerosol canister specifically designed to test smoke alarms.
Open the alarms cover and lightly vacuum the interior components with the fine brush attachment for your vacuum cleaner.
Pull out and disconnect the battery. Replace it with a new one.
TIPS
Smoke alarms have a life expectancy of approximately 10 years. If you don't know how old the smoke alarms are, replace them or smoke test them as described above.
If your home has a security system connected to a central station, contact the alarms company before testing the smoke alarms.
