Smoke Detectors

Installation and Maintenance
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Fires can start anywhere - the more smoke detectors you have, the better protected your home is. Place detectors where they can be heard throughout your home, especially while sleeping.

Installation 

  • Fit smoke detectors on every level of your home, and in all regularly used rooms (i.e. bedrooms, living rooms).
  • Landlords must install at least one smoke detector on each floor used as living accommodation.
  • Never remove batteries unless replacing them immediately.
  • Mount detectors on the ceiling, near the centre, at least 30 cm (12 inches) away from light fittings.
  • Use a heat detector in the kitchen to avoid false activations.
  • Do not fit a detector in bathrooms - steam can trigger them.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Maintenance 

  • Test detectors weekly - use a broom handle if needed.
  • If a detector chirps regularly, replace the battery or unit
  • Clean your detectors regularly, using a vacuum or a feather duster, to remove dust.
  • Replace detectors every 10 years or sooner if faulty or if the manufacturer’s “replace by” date has passed.

Support for others

Check in on older relatives, neighbours or anyone who may struggle to test or maintain their smoke detectors. A quick visit could save a life.

Types of Smoke Detectors
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Different homes and needs may require different types of smoke detectors. Here's what to consider:

  • Sealed battery compartments help prevent tampering or battery removal.
  • Optical multi-sensor detectors offer reliable detection and typically last 10 years.
  • Interconnected detectors trigger all detectors when one detects smoke, offering early warning- ideal for larger homes.
  • Standard detectors suit most private homes, while flats, HMOs, and specialist housing may need interlinked or monitored systems.
  • Assistive detectors with strobe lights or vibrating pads support people who may not hear a standard detector.
  • Smart detectors can send alerts to your phone and link with other safety systems
What to do if your smoke alarm goes off
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  • Do not ignore it. Treat every actuation as a potential fire until you know otherwise.
  • Check for signs of fire, look for smoke, heat, or flames.
  • Get out, stay out, and call 999 if there is any sign of fire.
  • Close doors behind you as you leave to slow the spread of fire.
  • Never re-enter until you are told it is safe to do so.
  • If it’s a false activation (e.g. steam), ventilate the area- consider relocating the detector if false activations are frequent.
  • Never silence a sounding detector without checking the cause - it could be your only warning.

#TestItTuesday

Join the national campaign to make smoke detector testing part of your weekly routine.

  • Every Tuesday, press the test button on your smoke detectors.
  • It only takes seconds and could save your life.
  • Encourage friends, family, and neighbours to do the same.
  • Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to test weekly.
Campaign Assets

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety

Installation, Maintenance and Advice
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Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, tasteless and poisonous gas. Protect yourself and your household by installing a CO detector and following these safety tips:

Installation and Maintenance 

  • Fit a CO detector in every room with a fuel-burning appliance (e.g. boiler, fireplace).
  • Landlords must install CO detectors in rooms with solid fuel appliances.
  • Smoke detectors do not detect CO, you need a separate device.
  • Test your CO detector regularly
  • WYFRS does not supply CO detectors.

Advice 

  • Get coal, oil and natural gas appliances checked annually by a qualified professional.
  • Fit an audible CO detector and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Ensure proper ventilation and never block air vents.
  • Use an extraction fan when cooking - or open a window if you don't have one.
  • Register appliances for safety updates.
  • Check gas flames – they should burn crisp blue, not floppy yellow.
  • Never use BBQs, portable heaters, or generators indoors or near windows.
  • Save the National Gas Emergency Service number - 0800 111 999.
What to do if your Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector goes off?
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  • Open windows and doors immediately.
  • Turn off appliances if safe to do so.
  • Leave the property
  • Call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately - 0800 111 999. 

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

CO reduces oxygen in the body and can mimic flu symptoms. If someone feels unwell at home but better outside, it could be CO poisoning. Common symptoms include:

  • Dizziness or nausea
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Collapse or lack of consciousness

Learn more: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/carbon-monoxide-poisoning/ 

Assistive Technology for Fire Safety

Assistive Technology refers to any device or solution that helps people live safely and independently, especially those with specific needs or vulnerabilities. It can support:

  • People who are may not hear a standard detector (i.e.: hard of hearing), using smoke detectors with strobe lights or vibrating pads that alert through sight or touch.
  • People with mobility challenges, using linked detectors that notify carers or family members elsewhere in the home.
  • People who may not understand or respond to standard detectors, using tailored alert system.

Telecare services offer remote monitoring and emergency alerts, ideal for individuals who are vulnerable, live alone or have health or mobility needs. For more information, visit your local council website: Find your local council - GOV.UK

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