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Home Safety Basics: Smoke Alarms, CO Alarms and Fire Extinguishers

Where to place alarms, how often to test them and what to know about extinguishers, in plain language.

By The Homekeeper Editors · · 2 min read

Working alarms are among the most effective and affordable ways to protect a household. A few minutes of attention each month keeps them dependable.

Smoke alarms

Where to put them: Fire safety organizations recommend an alarm inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Mount them on the ceiling or high on a wall, following the manufacturer's instructions.

What to do:

  • Test every alarm monthly using the test button.
  • Replace batteries when needed, or when the alarm chirps. Some models have sealed long-life batteries.
  • Replace the entire alarm about every 10 years. Check the date on the back.
  • Consider interconnected alarms so that when one sounds, they all do.

Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, stoves and fireplaces, and by vehicles and generators.

  • Install CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas, as the manufacturer directs.
  • Test them monthly and replace them at the end of their listed lifespan.
  • Never run a generator, grill or car engine in or near an enclosed space such as a garage.
  • If the alarm sounds, get everyone outside into fresh air and call emergency services.

Fire extinguishers

A small multipurpose extinguisher in the kitchen and near the garage is a sensible addition. Read the label so you know the fire classes it handles.

  • Keep it where you can reach it, and near an exit.
  • Check the pressure gauge regularly.
  • Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side.
  • Fight a fire only if it is small, you have a clear exit behind you and everyone is already leaving. Otherwise, get out and call emergency services.

Make a plan

Walk your household through two ways out of every room and pick a meeting spot outside. Practice it twice a year. A plan you have rehearsed is far easier to follow when it counts.

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