Most fatal fires occur at night when people are asleep. The smell of smoke may not wake somebody that is asleep, even though most people think it will. The smoke and toxic gasses can put you into a deeper sleep. Smoke detectors are a rather inexpensive way of doubling your chances in a fire.

There are several types of detectors available. Many different power sources are available, from batteries to electricity with a battery backup. The detector you purchase should have an approval label from an independent testing laboratory.

Detectors should be mounted high on a wall since smoke rises. The top of the detector should be 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling. A ceiling-mounted detector should be mounted 4 inches from the wall. If the room is has a pitched ceiling the detector should be mounted at the highest point.

Smoke detectors should be mounted in each sleeping area and on every floor of the house, including the basement. The National Fire Protection Association requires a smoke detector in every sleeping area for new construction. The detectors should be installed in or near living areas or dens on floors without sleeping areas.

A smoke detector cannot protect you if it does not work. Never borrow the battery to use somewhere else. Test your detectors monthly and replace the batteries every time the time changes. Vacuum cleaners work well to clean detectors without removing the cover. Never paint any part of the detector. Detectors should be replaced after 10 years old