• Do not install smoke alarms in the path of turbulent air from fans, doors, windows, etc. Rapid air movement can prevent smoke caused by combustion from entering the alarm.
• Do not install smoke alarms in high humidity areas such as bathrooms and attics, or where the temperature exceeds 39C (100F) or falls below 5C (40F).
• Do not install smoke alarms at the peak of an 'A' frame ceiling. 'Dead' air at the top may prevent smoke from reaching the alarm in time to provide early warning.
• Do not install smoke alarms closer than 15 cm (6") to the wall when mounted on the ceiling.
• Do not install smoke alarms in poorly vented garages or kitchens. Car exhaust or smoke caused by cooking could trigger a 'nuisance' alarm.
• Every month your smoke alarm should be tested, using the alarm test button and following manufacturer's test instructions.

Dust can prevent a smoke alarm from working properly, so carefully vacuum the inside of a battery powered unit using the soft bristle brush. If the alarm is electrically connected, shut the power off and vacuum the outside vents only. Restore the power as soon as you are done! This should be done once a month.

Change your clock , change your battery!

Since we change our clocks each spring and fall, this is the best way to remember that a new battery should be installed, at least once a year! Ensure that the battery that is installed is the proper type! If the battery is low the smoke alarm will beep occasionally.

Smoke alarms don't last forever!

Smoke alarms wear out, so if you think your smoke alarm(s) are more than 10 years old, they should be replaced with new ones.