Everyone knows that smoke alarms are a vital part of a well-protected home. However, it’s easy to forget routine battery checks or overlook outdated units. When this happens, your home could be at risk, and you may even invalidate your insurance policy’s fire protection. Here’s why they’re critical for your family’s safety and where you should have an electrician install them for maximum efficiency.

Why Smoke Alarms Are Important

A well-maintained system of fire alarms can detect a blaze and alert you long before you notice it, particularly if you’re sleeping or working in a different part of the home. This early detection can help you extinguish the flames before they grow, or you can get your family to safety if the fire is already too large to manage. Additionally, many home insurance policies require a full set of functional smoke alarms. Test the batteries in your detectors each month and replace any models that are older than 10 years.

Where You Should Place Smoke Alarms

Most city codes require smoke detectors in each bedroom and outside any sleeping area, as well as, a carbon monoxide detector/smoke detector on each floor. Each level of the home, including the basement, should have at least one detector, and they should be placed away from any drafts that could interfere with detection. You should also avoid putting one in the kitchen, where cooking food could trigger the alarm. Because smoke rises, the units should be placed on the ceiling or high on the wall.  If you’re not sure where to place smoke detectors, an electrician can recommend the best spots and ensure they’re installed correctly.

Whether you need updated smoke alarms, rewiring services, or new lighting during a remodel, the electricians at RM Electrical can help. For more than a decade, they’ve been helping Illinois homeowners throughout St. Clair, Monroe, and Madison counties beautify their homes and stay safe. They also offer electrical services for commercial projects. If you’re ready to protect your home with updated smoke alarms, contact these electricians by calling (618) 939-0422. You can also visit them online to schedule a free project estimate.