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Choose & Install Smoke Alarms
Get several for around the house

Level of difficulty: Beginner

Installing smoke detectors in your home is quick, inexpensive and essential to you and your family's safety. Determine the type of smoke detector you wish to install. Battery operated, stand-alone units are inexpensive, low maintenance and readily available at your local True Value hardware store.

When purchasing smoke detectors, be sure also to select one specifically made for the kitchen to reduce false alarms. Other areas of your home may require special detectors as well. Ask your True Value expert for advice on which detector is right for which location. Be sure to test your detectors monthly and change the batteries twice a year (when you change your clocks). According to national research, the majority of smoke detectors fail due to missing, disconnected or dead batteries.

Materials List:

Screwdrivers 10-ft. or 25-ft. tape measure Batteries Pencil

Step 1: Simple Solution for Safety

Stand-alone battery-operated smoke detectors are inexpensive and easy to install. Detectors are unobtrusive and should be located on all floors of your house. Use the tape measure to place them evenly throughout your home in foyers, stairwells and hallways. Avoid kitchens, bathrooms or garages, as there are often sources that can trip the sensor and cause false alarms or else purchase those that are specifically made for these areas.

Step 2: Test the Alarm

Be sure to thoroughly read the instructions included with the smoke detector before beginning. Install the batteries in the detector and depress the test button to make sure the alarm works.

Step 3: Install the Detector

Following any specific directions that come with the detector, use the drill and screws to mount the back plate of the smoke detector to the wall or ceiling. Check to be sure the battery is correctly installed and replace the front cover of the unit.

Step 4: Enjoy Peace of Mind

Your house and family now have an extra level of protection!