Home Security and Smoke Alarms

How to use smoke alarms properly
Smoke alarms can sound off at any time, regardless of smoke is detected. For this reason, you should install your fire alarm as recommended by the manufacturer. You will have instructions provided with your purchase. Use it!

Smoke alarms can sound off if the alarms are installed less than 20 feet from heated appliances, such as ovens, stoves, etc. Your smoke alarm requires that you install it 20 feet away from these areas, as well as 10 feet in the air, away from humidity-based areas. For instance, you should not install your smoke alarm near vents, laundry areas, showers, etc. As well, keep the device a few feet above vents if installed in this area. Check your manual to learn specific feet, installation details, etc.
Dust particles will also make smoke alarms sound. You will need to clean your smoke detector often. You can use soft brushes on your vacuum cleaner to cleanse the product. Ultimately, cheap PC vacuums are available, which you can use to clean the device as well. You may want to use an insect repellent to spray around the alarm. The repellent should not touch your alarm, only areas around the product. Bugs can also make your smoke detector sound when no smoke is present. Again, you want to clean the device regularly to avoid problems.

How do I tell if the alarm is sending a legit warning?
If your alarm is sounding, you want to make sure it was not triggered by another alarm in your home area. Smoke and fire can hide. You want to stay safe. There is no such thing as, “You are bugging the fire department.” If you are not sure that your home is safe, then you may want to call 911 anyway. Let them check your home. 

If you own a powered smoke alarm you may experience repeated interruptions, since Utility firms switching grids will cause power changes. Powered alarms can be interrupted as well during power outages. If you have powered alarms you want to keep them clean, and supply new batteries when needed. As well, test the alarms weekly. The newer alarms have chirping sounds that alert you when new batteries are needed. You want to make sure that the batteries are installed properly. Hold your tester button down a few seconds to test your product.
Additionally, if your smoke detector is improperly installed or wired, your smoke alarm may sound. You want to check your manual when installing your fire alarm to make sure that you have followed the guidelines properly.
How to test your functioning?
If you have indicator lights on your alarms, such as red and⁄or green lights which remain constant, then your smoke alarm should be working. If the lights are flashing, or not apparent, then you will need to test your system. Check your repair manual.
Tip: Every few years it is best to upgrade your alarms.
Additional Support Your smoke alarm will normally sound a few sceonds when the alarm powers up. If the smoke alarm continues to sound, you may have insufficient AC or battery power. Check your alarm. You may have to power down the system to restore AC power, otherwise the system may require new batteries.
How do I choose batteries?
Your smoke detector comes complete with manuals and instructions. The guide will instruct you. Follow the guide. It is not wise to install cheap batteries, or batteries that are outdated. You should purchase fresh batteries, and install only the brand your manual recommends. For additional help with home security, visit the Internet.