Installation

Placement

• The placement of smoke alarms is very important. Sleeping areas need the most protection. One alarm in a short hallway outside the bedroom area and another in the bedroom as recommended is usually adequate. Hallways longer than 30 feet should have one at each end
• Be sure to keep the smoke alarm away from fireplaces and stoves to avoid false alarms. If you choose to put a smoke alarm in your kitchen, be sure to keep it away from cooking fumes or smoking areas
• Place smoke alarms at the top of each stairwell. Smoke rises easily through stairwells

Mounting

• Proper mounting of a smoke alarm also is important. You can mount many alarms by yourself, but those connected to your household wiring should have their own separate circuit and be installed by a professional electrician
• If you mount your alarm on the ceiling, be sure to keep it at least 18 inches away from dead air space near walls and corners
• If you mount it on the wall, place it six to 12 inches below the ceiling and away from corners

Do not Place a Smoke Alarm:

• Any closer than three feet from an air register that might re-circulate smoke
• Near doorways or windows where drafts could impair the detector operation
• On an un-insulated exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect the batteries
• The Fire Department will check smoke alarms at your request