Looking after a smoke alarm

Every year people are killed in fires at home because their smoke alarms failed to work due to flat or missing batteries. Follow our calendar and make sure your alarm is in good working order.

Once a week
Test the battery - press the test button until the alarm sounds.

Twice a year
Open the case and gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensors. If it doesn’t open, vacuum through the holes.

Once a year
Change the battery (unless it’s a 10 year alarm).

After 10 years
It’s best to replace your alarm with a whole new unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my alarm keep going off?
False alarms can be annoying but they are easy to prevent. Whatever you do, don’t remove the battery or disconnect the alarm. Usually the problem is you have placed the alarm too near to the kitchen so it is easily set off when you are cooking. Follow the advice on fitting and try moving the alarm to a less sensitive area or replace it with a hush or silencer button alarm.

But my alarm isn’t near my kitchen but is still beeping regularly – what’s the problem?
If your smoke alarm starts to ‘beep’ regularly, you must replace the battery as soon as possible. If it’s a 10 year alarm, you should replace the whole unit.

Warning! False alarms can also show that your alarm needs servicing.

For more information about fire safety or to book a FREE home fire risk assessment visit the Fire Gateway website at www.fire.gov.uk.