Smoke detectors save lives... This is an important concept and smoke detectors should be used throughout the house. Follow these tips to ensure that your smoke detectors will be most effective in your home.

Placement
The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that every home have a smoke detector outside each sleeping area (inside as well if members of the household sleep with the door closed) and on every level of the home, including the basement. The National Fire Alarm code requires a smoke detector inside each sleeping area for new construction. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed in or near living areas, such as dens, living rooms or family rooms. Smoke detectors are not recommended for kitchens.

Installation
The placement of smoke detectors is very important. Sleeping areas need the most protection. One detector in a short hallway outside the bedroom area is usually adequate. Hallways longer than 30 feet should have one at each end. For maximum protection, install a detector in each bedroom.

Be sure to keep the detector away from fireplaces and wood stoves to avoid false alarms. Place smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell and at the end of each long hallway. Smoke rises easily through stairwells. It’s important to properly mount a smoke detector. You can mount many detectors by yourself, however those connected to your household wiring should have their own separate circuit and be installed by a professional electrician. If you mount your detector 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. Keep them high because smoke rises.

Never place them any closer than three feet from an air register that might re-circulate smoke. Don't place them near doorways or windows where drafts could impair the detector operation. Don't place them on an un-insulated exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect the batteries.

Maintenance
It’s simple to keep smoke detectors in good condition. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to replace the batteries twice a year, when you change your clocks in the spring and fall year. Most models will make a chirping, popping or beeping sound when the battery is losing its charge. When this sound is heard, install a fresh battery, preferably an alkaline type.

Check the smoke detector every month by releasing smoke or pushing the “test” button.If they are connected to your alarm central station, please contact them and let them know that you are testing them.. Clean the detector face and grillwork often to remove dust and grease. Never paint a smoke detector as it will hamper its function. Check your detector if you've been away from home.

Carbon Monoxide

Just like smoke detectors you should have carbon monoxide detectors installed in your house as well. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a very deadly gas. You can not smell it or even realize it is there. 

~Place CO detectors around the house, especially near the boiler room.

~If the alarm goes off, get out of the house, stay out, and call 911.  Do not stay in the house because you don't smell anything therefore it must be safe.

~We will come and make sure that your house is safe to enter and check for any more CO.