What Are Smoke Alarms?

Types

• All alarms fall under two types -- ionization and photoelectric. Ionization alarms respond faster when a flaming, fast fire occurs, while photoelectric alarms are quicker to sense smoke.

  The United States Fire Association recommends a combination of both types of smoke alarms. Each type has distinct strengths. However, fires are fatally individual and no one should gamble on where or how they will develop. Dual ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are available.

Best Locations

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home -- basement, first floor, second floor and attic. Smoke alarms should be in kitchens, bedrooms, hallways, garages and any other room in the house. Properly installed smoke alarms save lives, and a safe home includes detectors in every room. Not all states or the federal government require alarms in every room.

Upkeep

• Test smoke alarms once a month by pressing the test button on the detector. Replace the batteries in a smoke alarm each year. If the alarm "chirps," the batteries inside the detector are dying and should be immediately replaced. A smoke alarm should be replaced every 10 years regardless if it still responds to smoke because new, more sensitive technology may be included in the newer models of alarms.

Safety Tips

• All smoke detectors should include a validation sticker of inspection and production by a respected manufacturer on the alarm. Alarms that are electrically powered and are hard wired (including battery backup) require installation by a professional.

  Smoke alarms are available for the deaf or hard of hearing. These smoke detectors use strobe lights and vibrations to notify people when smoke is detected.