Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Having the right alarms in your home, and keeping them in working order, is one of the most important ways to stay safe from fire and carbon monoxide (CO). Here's what you need to know.
Smoke alarms
Every second counts in a fire. Smoke alarms give you and your family crucial early warning, buying you time to escape safely. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and legally required in many homes.
What to look for in a smoke alarm:
- Meets British Standard BS EN 14604.
- Has a UKCA or CE mark and preferably a kite mark, which shows the product has been independently tested for reliability and quality.
- Includes a test/reset button, alarm memory, and long-life sealed battery or mains with backup.
Types of alarm:
- Optical (photoelectric) alarms are best for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Ionisation alarms respond faster to fast-flaming fires and are best for hallways and landings.
- Interlinked alarms (wired or wireless) are recommended - when one sounds, they all do.
Safety tips
- Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home.
- Fit alarms on the ceiling, ideally in the centre of the room or hallway.
- Test your alarms once a month. Replace batteries if needed.
- Replace the entire alarm every 10 years, or as advised by the manufacturer.
Carbon monoxide alarms
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and deadly gas that’s produced when fuel doesn’t burn fully - such as in gas boilers, wood burners, open fires, or oil appliances. Even low-level exposure can cause serious harm.
You should have a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a solid fuel appliance. This includes wood-burning stoves, coal fires, or gas boilers.
What to look for in a CO alarm:
- Meets BS EN 50291-1 (for home use)
- Meets BS EN 50291-2 (for caravans or boats)
- Has a UKCA or CE mark and preferably a kite mark, which shows the product has been independently tested for reliability and quality.
- Includes a test/reset button, alarm memory, and long-life sealed battery or mains with backup.
Safety tips
- Test CO alarms monthly
- Don’t block air vents – proper airflow is essential for safe combustion
- Know the symptoms of CO poisoning:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Breathlessness
- Collapse or unconsciousness
- If you suspect a CO leak:
- Move to fresh air immediately
- Open windows and doors
- Turn off appliances if safe to do so
- Call 999