Safety boundary: Local alarm requirements vary. Follow provincial or territorial law, the alarm instructions and fire-service guidance.
Inventory every alarm
Record whether it is smoke, carbon monoxide or combination; its power source; certification mark; manufacture date and location.
Test and maintain
Use the test button and replace batteries or units according to instructions. Do not paint alarms or disable nuisance units.
Plan the response
Everyone should know the sound, exits and meeting place. A carbon-monoxide alarm requires leaving for fresh air, not opening windows and remaining inside.
Keep records
A simple annual record prevents forgotten basement, garage-adjacent or rental-unit alarms.
Useful questions to record
- Can everyone leave safely now?
- Which emergency service or utility should be called from outside?
- What information can be recorded without re-entering?
Related guides
Carbon Monoxide and Home HeatingHow carbon monoxide can enter a home and what alarms and appliance maintenance can—and cannot—do.Gas Odour or Suspected Fuel LeakA simple emergency response that avoids switches, sparks and delay.Venting and Combustion AirWhy appliance vents, chimneys, exhaust fans and house pressure interact.HVAC, Filtration and Indoor Air QualityWhat central HVAC can contribute—and what requires source control or ventilation.