Half of all fire deaths happen between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most people are asleep. One way to increase your chances of surviving a fire in your home is to have smoke alarms, but these devices don't last forever. In fact, the United States Fire Administration (USFA) recommends replacing your smoke detectors 10 years after the date of manufacture, which is usually found on the back of the alarm.
It's a good idea to replace all of your smoke alarms at the same time and to use units that are made by the same manufacturer. Fortunately, this is fairly easy to do these days. Due to mergers and acquisitions, there are only two big players in the smoke detector industry: First Alert and Kidde. Though, Nest is growing in popularity due to its superb smart smoke detector.
When shopping for smoke alarms, you need to know what kind of sensors the detectors have: photoelectric or ionization. Photoelectric sensors do a great job of detecting slow-burning, smoky, smoldering fires. Ionization sensors are better at detecting fast-burning, flaming fires. Ionization sensors are more popular and less expensive but less effective. If possible, try to install at least one of each type of alarm.
How many smoke alarms should your home have? This is a tricky question because codes vary from one municipality to another. You can find your city's code by simply searching "[your city] smoke detector code" online. Most require an alarm in each room where people sleep, an alarm in hallways outside of bedrooms, and at least one on each level, including the basement.
Lastly, don't stop at smoke alarms. Carbon monoxide detectors are also a must. The requirements are also governed by local code, and generally, you want a CO detector on each floor. Many modern smoke detectors also have built-in carbon monoxide detectors. A fire extinguisher can also be a lifesaver. Not only can a fire extinguisher put out small fires, but it can also be used to open up a path of escape in the event of a raging fire. Again, place one on each floor.
While you are improving your family's fire safety, take a moment to draw up an escape plan for family members. For information on how to create a plan, visit the website for the National Fire Protection Association.
Our guide features detectors that will last you for at least five years, are easy to install, and, most importantly, they will alert your family when hazardous smoke is present.
Here are the best smoke detectors:Prices and links are current as of 6/23/20. We also added a selection of related safety buying guides.