A smoke detector is a device, which is a typical indicator of fire through the detection of smoke. According to the Canadian Electrical Code, household smoke detectors should be hardwired and interconnected to other smoke detectors on each level of your home close to the bedrooms. This will ensure if one detector is initiated, the rest will alarm as well. When hardwired to your electrical system constant protection is provided. The best possible scenario is to have a smoke detector hardwired with a battery backup. A lot of older homes will only have battery operated smoke detectors which requires constant maintenance to ensure the device is working. It is estimated that over 30% of smoke detectors are not functioning due to users removing batteries or forgetting to replace them.

• Smoke alarms should be interconnected, hardwired and include a battery backup for maximum protection
• A smoke alarm should be installed on each floor close to the bedrooms
• A smoke detector should be replaced every 10 years and when you move to a new residence
• Install a combination smoke/carbon monoxide detector for maximum protection

Basic Maintenance of smoke detectors:

• Perform a monthly check by pressing the test button
• Replace the batteries once a year and when the smoke detector emits a low battery warning beep
• Clean your smoke detector with a vacuum and a wet rag when it begins to accumulate dust
• Install long lasting batteries to ensure it will function for a longer period of timecard