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First up, what exactly do we mean by a fire alarm? Fire alarms are pieces of fire safety equipment that perform two key functions:
Most smoke detector models also pick up on toxic fumes that could pose a risk to residents’ safety, such as carbon monoxide, as well as non-toxic substances such as water vapour
As well as an automatic smoke sensor function, this alarm is likely to include a manual trigger function so that residents can raise the alarm if they become aware of a fire risk
The latest legislation in the UK (British Standard 5839-6:2019) classifies fire detection and fire alarm systems for domestic premises into various categories:
British Standard 5839-6:2019 also categorises fire detection and alarm system equipment based on the levels of fire safety provided:
Install your smoke detectors on the ceiling in hallways and landings, as well as in other rooms of the home depending on the fire safety classification that you’re aiming for.
For increased levels of fire safety, install smoke detectors on every floor of the property.
As of October 2015, UK landlords are legally required to install smoke detectors on each floor of their properties that is used as living space, as well as to install carbon monoxide detectors in all areas with devices that burn solid fuel (for example coal or wood).
In addition, landlords are legally required to test the function of these smoke detectors at the start of each new tenancy.
After that point, it becomes the residents’ responsibility to regularly check the function of their home’s detectors.
If your smoke detectors run on batteries, ensure that you regularly replace these and check that the detectors’ alarm function is working properly.
Avoid installing smoke detectors in areas where steam is likely to regularly trigger a false fire alarm, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Instead, you might want to install heat detectors in these parts of the house.
Remember, though: legal guidelines stipulate that heat detectors cannot be used as a substitute for smoke detectors in the home.
You might also want to consider installing carbon monoxide detectors within your property, to effectively detect these toxic fumes and ensure residents’ safety.
UK government guidelines recommend installing your home’s carbon monoxide detectors at head height and approximately 1 to 3 metres away from any devices that could potentially emit these toxic fumes.
It’s worth bearing in mind that household appliances that use gas are potential sources of carbon monoxide. So, it’s wise to install appropriate detectors near to these, too.
Fire extinguishers are not compulsory fire safety equipment for private homes, but you might want to consider installing them close to areas that pose the greatest risk of fire (the kitchen, for example).
Fire evacuation plans
In the event of a fire in your home, it’s vital that everyone living there knows how to evacuate the property and get to safety. Knowing how you’d all get out in a potential emergency will save time if there is a fire and could also save lives.
Looking to improve the fire safety systems in your home? Install Netatmo’s Smart Smoke Detector and you’ll never need to worry about changing the batteries! The Netatmo Smart Smoke Detector is specially designed to have a battery lifespan of 10 years, covering the entire useful life of the device. Plus, the Smart Smoke Detector regularly auto-checks its own function and sends you periodic reminders to test its audible alarm function. Handy!