How to Test Multi-Station Smoke Detectors
It is a well-known fact that smoke detectors save lives. According to the Fire Marshal's Public Safety Council, the rate of death in homes with working smoke detectors is 12 out of every 1,000 people. The rates are significantly higher for homes with no alarms. It is crucial, however, that you keep the smoke detectors in your home in perfect working order. Smoke detectors should be tested monthly. There are special procedures involved in testing systems where multiple smoke detectors are linked together. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Start with the smoke detector in the main living area of your home.
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Press the "test" button and hold it until the individual alarm sounds. Release the button.
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Press the "test" button and hold it until the individual alarm sounds. Continue pressing the button until you hear all other connected alarms sound. It's a good idea to station a couple of people throughout the house to ensure that all alarms are sounding.
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Move from room to room, repeating the above procedures until you've checked every smoke detector in the home. Remember to check those in out of the way places like attics and basements as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Always keep extra batteries on hand for battery-operated smoke detectors.
Ensure that your battery is inserted correctly by testing the detector after you replace the battery.
Replace smoke detectors when they are 10 years old or when they cease to function.
Consider installing smoke detectors that are hardwired into your home's electrical system and that have a battery backup.
Never paint over a smoke detector as it can cause it to malfunction by blocking important sensors.
Do not test your smoke detector by blowing smoke into it or lighting a match or lighter under it.
