Smoke detectors and fire safety at home

In short: Smoke detectors warn in good time of fire smoke, often at night when you are asleep. In all German federal states they are mandatory in homes.

In more detail: Most fire victims do not die of flames but of toxic smoke.

In detail

• Where: In bedrooms, children’s rooms and hallways leading to sleeping rooms; kitchen and bathroom rather not (false alarms).
• Mounting: In the centre of the ceiling, at least 50 cm from the wall.
• How it works: Usually an optical sensor: smoke scatters light in the measuring chamber, then the alarm sounds.
• Battery: Use models with a built-in 10-year battery; press the test button regularly.
• Maintenance: Dust occasionally; replace after about 10 years.
• Responsibility: The landlord usually provides installation, the tenant everyday checks (depending on the tenancy agreement).
• In case of fire: Stay calm, close windows and doors, leave the flat, dial 112.
• Prevention: Never leave candles unattended, never extinguish grease fires with water, keep a fire blanket ready (erste-hilfe-grundlagen).