Smoke alarms

What you should look for in a smoke alarm

Choose smoke alarms that are approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada, or other recognized testing laboratory.

Installing a smoke alarm

When installing a smoke alarm:

• Install smoke alarms on each level of your home, including the basement
• Consider installing smoke alarms inside each bedroom or sleeping area
• Consider the purchase of special communication aids which convert smoke alarm sounds into flashing lights or vibrations, to assist those who may have trouble hearing
• If smoke alarms are wired into the household electrical system, make sure the smoke alarms have a battery backup
• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for where to place the smoke alarms

Tips for installing interconnected smoke alarms PDF file (190 KB)

• Vacuum smoke alarms every six months to ensure reliable performance
• Test smoke alarms every month to ensure the units function properly
• If your smoke alarm has replaceable batteries, the batteries should be changed every six months; even if they still work. It might help to coordinate battery changes with a regular event, such as a seasonal time change, or birthday.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years or as the manufacturer recommends
• Resist the temptation to paint smoke alarms, disconnect smoke alarms, or remove the batteries
• Renew smoke alarms as the manufacturer directs