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Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Press the test button on every alarm once a month. It takes a minute per alarm and is the simplest safety check in the house.

Remind meHavenCue can remind your household every month. Free to set up.

Last reviewed against 3 official sources.

Who this is for

Every household. Renters too: you can test alarms even when the landlord owns them.

How often should I test smoke and CO alarms?

Test every alarm monthly. Replace 9-volt and backup batteries at least once a year, and replace a smoke alarm 10 years after the manufacture date printed on it. These come from the U.S. Fire Administration and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

From: U.S. Fire Administration (FEMA); U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

What you need

Tools

  • A step stool, or a broom handle to reach the button

Supplies

  • Fresh batteries of the type your alarms use

Steps

  1. Warn the householdTell everyone at home the alarms are about to sound.
  2. Press and hold the test buttonHold it until the alarm sounds. If your alarms are linked, the U.S. Fire Administration says that when one sounds they should all sound.
  3. Test every alarmSmoke alarms belong inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area and on every level, including the basement. CO alarms belong on each level and outside sleeping areas.
  4. Swap weak batteriesIf an alarm is quiet or chirps, replace its battery and test again. Sealed 10-year alarms have no battery to change: replace the whole alarm as its maker instructs.
  5. Check the date on the backFind the manufacture date. A smoke alarm that is 10 years old needs replacing.
  6. Note today’s dateWrite down the test so next month is easy to remember.

Safety notes

  • Never take the battery out to stop an alarm from sounding while you cook. Open a window or door, or press the hush button.
  • CO poisoning can feel like headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness or confusion. If you suspect it, get outside to fresh air right away and then call 911.
  • The CPSC says CO alarms should not go in attics or basements unless someone sleeps there.

When to call a professional

  • Hardwired alarms should be installed only by a qualified electrician.
  • If a CO alarm sounds and you do not know why, get everyone outside first, then call 911 or your fire department.

Sources

This guide is general information written in our own words from the sources above. Your owner’s manual and the instructions for your own equipment come first.

Tell it once. It remembers.

Press the test button on every alarm once a month.

Remind me