That annoying smoke detector

Smoke detectors are life saving devices.  However, like all appliances and electronic devices, they do have a life expectancy. 

Per NFPA: 

Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they are 10 years old or sooner if they do not respond properly.

The Ohio Building Code requires smoke detectors to be installed in newer homes on all floors and in all sleeping areas.  Code also requires that all detectors activate when a single detector senses smoke or fire.   This provides additional protection by alerting occupants who are not in the area of a fire.  

False activation from a smoke detector is common when:

·     The batteries are weak.  This usually begins as a periodic chirping from one or all detectors.  By remembering and following “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery" at the beginning and end of Daylight Savings Time, false alarms from weak batteries can be avoided.

·     The smoke detector has reached its end of life.  This usually results in some or all smoke detectors activating with no cause.   To prevent this annoyance (that always seems to happen at 3:00 in the morning), follow the NFPA’s recommendations to replace smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your smoke detectors, please contact your fire department at 614-568-2040