Smoke Alarm Importance

Having a smoke alarm is important, however, it is also imperative that you test the alarm twice a year. Between 2000-2010, 65% of fire fatalities occurred in houses without smoke alarms. Never disable a smoke detector simply because it has a low battery or because it is fault. Always replace a Smoke alarm promptly or call the Fire Department for assistance.

Installation and Upkeep
Remember to change your detector battery when you change your clock twice a year unless it is a fully protected 10 year battery, then you test twice a year. A smoke alarm will typically last 7-10 years. When the sealed battery type of Smoke Alarm does not pass test it should be replaced immediately. Homeowners should install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement and in every bedroom. The alarm can be placed on the ceiling or at a point on the wall as close to ceiling as possible, however, it is recommended that it be placed on ceiling. The alarm should be no less than 6 inches from corners.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Proper placement of a carbon monoxide (CO) detector is important. If you are installing only one carbon monoxide detector, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends it be located near the sleeping area, where it can wake you if you are asleep. Additional detectors on every level and in every bedroom of a home, provides extra protection against carbon monoxide poisoning.

Homeowners should remember not to install carbon monoxide detectors directly above or beside fuel-burning appliances, as appliances may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide upon start-up. A detector should not be placed within fifteen feet of heating or cooking appliances or in or near very humid areas such as bathrooms.

When considering where to place a carbon monoxide detector, keep in mind that although carbon monoxide is roughly the same weight as air (carbon monoxide's specific gravity is 0.9657, as stated by the EPA; the National Resource Council lists the specific gravity of air as one), it may be contained in warm air coming from combustion appliances such as home heating equipment. If this is the case, carbon monoxide will rise with the warmer air.

Installation locations vary by manufacturer. Manufacturers' recommendations differ to a certain degree based on research conducted with each one's specific detector. Therefore, make sure to read the provided installation manual for each detector before installing.

Request a Smoke Detector

The North Kansas City Fire Department offers free smoke alarms to homeowners who live within the city limits of North Kansas City. To request a smoke alarm, call the Fire Department at 816-274-6025 or fill out the following form: