Fire won't happen to me... A lot of people think that. Yet the fire brigade receives thousands of reports of fire in a home every year. Sometimes there is only material damage, but too often there are also deaths and injuries.
From July 1, 2022, it is mandatory for every home to have a smoke detector on every floor, including in your home. This applies to both new construction and existing construction. The fire brigade also recommends products such as carbon monoxide detectors, fire blankets, first aid kits and spray fire extinguishers. Installing a smoke detector is now very easy.
For example, some people use double-sided tape. While you're at it, put in a battery with a 10-year lifespan. In this article we provide several tips on using smoke detectors and useful facts about these devices.
MaandlastenManager has in its shop all the fire safety products you need in your home. There are also composite packages available with which we have already made a choice for you at competitive prices.
Where should smoke detectors be located?
It is mandatory to have at least 1 smoke detector on each floor. But for extra safety, the general advice is to provide not only the sleeping areas, but also the escape routes with a smoke detector. This way you can respond quickly and adequately in the event of fire.
Hang the smoke detector on the ceiling (smoke rises) but at least 50 cm away from the wall or corner.
In any case, install smoke detectors in the hall and landing. This is usually the escape route if a fire breaks out. It is even better to install detectors in all bedrooms and living rooms and rooms where a fire could possibly occur.
Do you want maximum security, hang CO2 detectors in all rooms where there is a combustion appliance such as a boiler, fireplace and the like.
MaandlastenManager has in its shop CO2 detectors that you need in your home too. There are also composite packages available with which we have already made a choice for you at competitive prices.
The following rules of thumb apply to installing smoke detectors:
In any case:
- On every floor against the ceiling;
- At least 50cm from the wall or corner and not in a draft, near mechanical ventilation, above a heater or above steam or vapor from a dryer;
- In every room that bedrooms open onto (escape route);
- In the room where the washing machine and dryer are located.
But preferably also:
- In every bedroom;
- In the living room and/or any other living space;
- In any room where electronic devices are charged such as telephones, tablets, bicycles or hoverboards;
- If you have a sloping wall, hang the detector 90cm from the highest point on the ceiling.
What should I pay attention to when purchasing a smoke detector?
Always choose an approved smoke detector with the EN 14604 quality mark. The quality mark guarantees that the smoke detector meets the necessary quality requirements with regard to product information, maintenance, sustainability and environmental aspects. Only smoke detectors with this quality mark may still be sold.
How do I maintain my smoke detectors?
Remove dust from the detectors every month with the vacuum cleaner. This way you ensure that the detectors continue to work properly and can function optimally in the event of an emergency. If too much dust builds up in the detector, it can affect the operation of the device and cause it to go off when there is no smoke. Test the detectors every month by pressing the test button. Do not wait to replace the battery until it is completely empty, but replace all batteries on a fixed day of the year or buy batteries that last 10 years.
Does the smoke detector obligation affect my insurance?
That is something that each insurer decides for itself and includes in its conditions. Please note that there are insurers who take the obligation into account in the amount of the premium or the amount to be paid out. Although the majority do not take this into account.