Testing Smoke Alarms

Important

Never remove the battery from your detector, even for a short period.

At least one smoke alarm should be fitted to each level of your home. In order to make sure your smoke alarm can save your life, it is important to maintain it properly and test it regularly.

Looking after your smoke alarm

Most budget smoke detectors will come with a battery already fitted. This battery will last for at least one year. Make a point of changing that battery annually.

Consider using one of your children's birthdays, or a special occasion, to remind you to change it.

Once a week - test the battery: press the button until the alarm sounds.
Once a year - change the battery (unless it's a 10 year alarm).
Twice a year - open the case and gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensors. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.
After 10 years - replace your alarm with a whole new unit.

Use our wall chart

Top tip

Keep a printed copy of the chart on a wall near your smoke alarm, so you can keep a record of its maintenance schedule. (The chart includes some useful general fire safety reminders too).

Download a printer friendly wall chart PDF 37Kb

The battery in a smoke alarm should be replaced on an annual basis.
Place an asterisk (*) in the appropriate box in the chart to show the month in which the battery is due for renewal.
The alarm should be tested regularly once a week.
Tick the appropriate box in the chart when you do your weekly test.
Vacuum inside the alarm casing once or twice a year.

Remember

Fit smoke alarms.
Test them each week.
Replace the batteries once a year.