Smoke Alarm Locations

Right Alarm - Right Location

Know the type of alarm your home needs and follow installation guidelines.

More Alarm Info
Fire Sprinkler Information

Fire Sprinklers Save Lives

Slow the spread of fire and smoke, give your family more time to escape.

More Fire Sprinkler Info
Fire Drill Preparation

Fire Drill Plans and Prep

Create a plan, draw it out, and practice twice a year.

More Planning Info
Risk Reduction

See a Problem - Take Action!

Risk is all around us. See a problem, help resolve it.

More Risk Reduction Info

Smoke Alarm FAQs

Residential smoke alarms are rated for 10 years.

Follow manufacture's guidelines but when in doubt, replace the alarm.

Date of manufacture can be found on the back of your alarm.

If the date is missing or unreadable, replace the alarm.

Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries at least every year. Replace alarms as noted.

Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. In the basement, install on the ceiling at the bottom of the stairs. On levels without bedrooms, install in the common room or near the stairway.

Smoke alarms can be installed on the ceiling or wall. For ceiling installation, mount alarm toward the middle of the ceiling, no closer than four inches from walls. If ceiling installation is not possible, mount alarms on the wall, no closer than four inches from the ceiling.

Smoke alarms installed within 20 feet of a cooking appliance should be equipped with a means of alarm silencing or be photoelectric. Smoke alarms should not be installed within 3 feet of a bathroom with tub or shower, in a garage, within 3 feet of an air register, near doorways or windows with the potential for drafts, or on an uninsulated exterior wall or ceiling.

Smoke alarms can be purchased at various local retailers. If you have questions or are unable to procure smoke alarms, contact us.

  • SC State Fire
  • SC State Firefighter's Association
  • SC Fire Chiefs Association
  • South Carolina International Association of Arson Investigators
  • SC Fire Marshals Association
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