A smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on each level of the home provides a reasonable degree of protection from the threat of fire. In a single-level home, one alarm may be sufficient if all the bedrooms connect to a common passageway from the living areas. Extra alarms are warranted in homes with separated sleeping areas. If occupants sleep with bedroom doors closed, install a smoke alarm in each bedroom, particularly if heaters or electrical appliances are used in these rooms. In all cases, be sure everyone sleeping in your home can hear all smoke alarms.
If you can handle a screw-driver and operate a drill, you can install a battery-operated smoke alarm. They are simply fastened with two small screws.
Household current smoke alarms should be installed by a licensed electrician.
Because smoke rises, mount alarms high on a wall or on the ceiling. For effective operation smoke alarms should be located away from corners. Don t install a smoke alarm too near a window, door, or forced-air register where drafts could interfere with the unit s operation. On a normal flat ceiling install the smoke alarm a minimum of 150 mm (6 in.) from the nearest wall.
On a wall, locate the top of the alarm between 150 mm (6 in.) at 300 mm (12 in.) from the ceiling. In rooms with high pitched ceilings, mount the alarm at or near the ceiling high point.