Is there anything I should do to maintain my smoke alarms?

Only working smoke alarms can be counted on to provide a warning if a fire breaks out in your home. Smoke alarms should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Occasional light vacuuming of the exterior of the smoke alarm will keep the air vents clean.

Smoke alarms powered by batteries should be checked to make sure that the battery is in place and properly connected. The battery should also be checked for corrosion. We recommend this be done each spring and fall in connection with the changing of your clocks to and from day light savings time.

Newer smoke alarms have a “test” button or feature built into the unit so the alarm can be checked regularly. Some manufacturers recommend that smoke alarms be tested monthly.