Things You'll Need:
- Standard 9-volt Batteries
- Smoke Detectors
- Smoke Detectors
- Combination Smoke/carbon Monoxide Detectors
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Step 1
Test your smoke detector once a month.
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Step 2
Press the test button on your detector and check that the device beeps or rings loudly.
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Step 3
Avoid lighting candles under the detector to see if the alarm goes off. Repeated use of smoke to activate detectors can cause them to fail when a real fire occurs.








Comments
pirate7 said
on 11/3/2007 (to eHow friend) do not keep extinguishers in closets, keep them easily accesible
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 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.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Besides just testing your smoke detectors, fire drills and an escape plan may make the difference in an emergency. Don't use candles or space heaters. Be careful when you're cooking. Keep fire extinguishers in every closet.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Record the date you installed the detector note the expiration as 10 years from that date.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Don't forget to change the batteries in your smoke detector and get a carbon monoxide detector.