Check your smoke and CO alarms

Working alarms give you the warning you need to get out safely.

Where they should be

• A smoke alarm on every level of the home, and inside and outside sleeping areas.
• A carbon monoxide (CO) alarm near sleeping areas on each level, especially if you use gas, oil or wood appliances, or have an attached garage.

What to do each month

Press the test button on every alarm. If it is weak or silent, replace the battery.

How long they last

Smoke alarms generally need replacing about every 10 years, and CO alarms follow the maker's instructions. Check the date printed on the back.

Make a plan

Agree on two ways out of each bedroom and a meeting place outside. Practice it once with everyone in the home.