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    Smoke & CO Detectors

    Replace every 10 years. Test monthly. Save lives.

    Old detectors fail SILENTLY

    • Smoke detectors expire after 10 years — sensor degrades.
    • CO detectors expire after 5-7 years (depends on model).
    • Many old detectors LOOK fine but won\'t actually alarm in a fire.
    • Look at the back: "Manufactured" date.
    • If older than 10 years — REPLACE.

    Where to install

    • One smoke detector inside each bedroom.
    • One outside every sleeping area.
    • One on every floor (basement included).
    • CO detector on every floor where someone sleeps.
    • NOT in kitchen / bathroom (false alarms).
    • NOT near ceiling fans or AC vents.

    First Alert 10-Year Combo (BRK)

    $30

    Smoke + CO. 10-year sealed battery. Set and forget.

    Best basic option.

    Kidde KN-COSM-IBA

    $50

    Hardwired smoke + CO. With battery backup. Fits most home wiring.

    For replacing existing hardwired.

    Nest Protect (Google)

    $120

    Smart smoke + CO. Speaks alerts ("smoke in the kitchen"). App alerts. Tests itself.

    Best smart option.

    X-Sense (low-cost smart)

    $50-80

    Cheaper smart alternative to Nest. Wi-Fi alerts.

    Best smart value.

    First Alert Strobe Light Smoke

    $60

    For deaf/hard-of-hearing — flashes bright light + sound.

    Required for hearing-impaired homes.

    Monthly test (1 minute)

    1. Press the TEST button on each detector.
    2. Should alarm immediately.
    3. If quiet/weak — battery dying. Replace battery (or whole detector if 10-year sealed).

    For seniors who can\'t reach high

    • Local fire department often INSTALLS detectors free for seniors. Call non-emergency line.
    • Red Cross "Sound the Alarm" program — free smoke detectors + install. soundthealarm.org.
    • Reach extender pole ($30) for testing.

    Fire extinguisher too

    One ABC-rated 5-pound fire extinguisher in kitchen, garage, and bedroom. ~$30 each. Replace or recharge every 5-12 years (check tag). Most kitchen fires are STOVE fires — extinguisher near the stove (but not directly above) saves homes.