CHECK SMOKE DETECTOR regularly. Why? It is very important to make sure your smoke detector is in good condition. Press the test button on your detector and check that the device beeps or rings loudly. PUSH AND HOLD THE TEST BUTTON IN FOR ABOUT THREE SECONDS, if the alarm goes it's working and the battery is still probably good.

Avoid use candles or space heaters to test your smoke detector because it will make the device less sensitive or spoil when a real fire occurs. When you push the test button you are checking the circuts and the battery. There is a product called smoke test. It is a can of fake smoke that doesn't leave a residue in the detector or on the walls. Real smoke works but will leave a residue in the detector.

When testing your alarm, use a sturdy ladder instead of climbing on stools or chairs. In many cases, it is possible to check alarms on the ceiling by using a broom stick handle or other long device. This enables you to stay at the floor level while reaching a detector up high.

Record the date you installed the detector note the expiration as 10 years from that date. Don't forget to change the batteries in your smoke detector. If your detector runs on batteries, change them when you change your clocks - at the start and end of daylight-saving time. If your smoke detector starts chirping or beeping off and on, it's time to change the batteries.

You may want to consider purchasing a combination smoke/carbon monoxide detector. These units cost more but are well worth it. If a smoke detector goes off, immediately respons to leave your home. There is absolutely no time to gather possessions, pets and possibly even each other.