Maintenance of smoke alarms is very important:
- Clean alarms with a vacuum cleaner. Do not remove the cover to clean dust and spider webs from alarms.
- Install fresh batteries at least once a year. A good way to remember is to change batteries when the clocks are changed in the spring and fall.
- Make sure everyone in your household is familiar with the alarm’s sound. Plan an escape route and a meeting place.
- Make sure there is a smoke alarm on every level of your home including the basement
- Never disable a alarm by removing the battery because it goes off or "chirps." There is always a reason why it is going off even if you do not see or smell smoke.
- Never paint any part of a smoke alarm.
- Replace smoke alarm that are 10 years old or older