Smoke and CO Detectors: The 10-Minute Check

Working detectors roughly halve the risk of dying in a home fire — but only if they actually work. The whole check takes ten minutes.

Test monthly, batteries yearly

Press and hold the test button on each unit once a month. Replace the batteries at least once a year (an easy habit: when the clocks change).

Detector batteries →

Replace the whole unit on schedule

Smoke detectors expire after about 10 years; combo CO units after 5–7. Check the manufacture date on the back — if it is past, replace it, batteries or not.

Smoke & CO detector →

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Put them in the right spots

One in every bedroom, one outside each sleeping area, and one on every level including the basement. Put CO alarms near sleeping areas and away from fuel-burning appliances.