Alarm and battery replacement

Replace smoke alarms after 10 years and CO alarms after five years. If you have any concerns about an alarm's reliability, replace it. The manufacture date is on the back of the alarm; fresher is better.

Once you install your alarms, be sure to maintain them. Test alarms at least monthly using the test button. Vacuum out dust and other debris as needed.

Plan on replacing the batteries in your smoke and CO alarms regularly. Follow the manufacturers guidelines for battery type and replacement frequency. A few smoke alarms come equipped with a lithium battery intended to last the lifetime of the device.