In just 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a catastrophic, life-threatening blaze. Don’t ignore the beeps and chirps your smoke alarms may make—learn what they mean by reading through the user’s manual. Maintaining these devices in your home is simple and can be a life-saving measure.

Smoke Alarms:

• Replace the batteries annually. When doing so, reset the alarm by holding the button down for five seconds until you hear three consecutive beeps.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, enclosed area, on each level of the home and at least 10 feet away from kitchen appliances.
• Be sure to replace your smoke alarm after 10 years of service.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

• Replace the batteries annually. Press the button, and if the batteries were installed correctly, you will hear a beep.
• You should have a carbon monoxide detector installed on each floor, in each bedroom , in each hallway near sleeping areas, at the top of each stairway going to upper floors and at the bottom of the stairway leading to the basement.