Smoke Alarms

Safety messages about smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today's smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced and able to respond to many fire conditions while mitigating false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. To reduce false alarms, smoke alarms should be kept away from the kitchen, at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• Special alarms, which have strobe lights and bed shakers, can be used by people who are hard of hearing or deaf.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

The City of Broadview Heights Fire Department recommends photoelectric smoke detectors.

Other Public Education Videos can be viewed on our Department's YouTube Channel.