Yes, the Fire Detectors In Your House Expire — Here’s When You Need to Replace Them

Like other household products, smoke detectors in your home expire. If this comes as a shock to you, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms and more than one-third (38 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present. And unfortunately, a large portion of those affected by residential fires are members of the Black community where the risk of fire-related death is almost twice that of individuals of any other race.

That’s why Kidde, the maker of fire safety solutions, is raising awareness through Cause for Alarm™, a fire education and safety initiative addressing fire safety gaps. When a home has a working smoke alarm, the risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half. And with proper safeguards in place such as a working smoke alarm, parents can get the much-needed peace of mind that comes from knowing they’re prepared in the event of an emergency. To help other families do the same, every alarm unit purchased during October and November this year will trigger a $1 contribution for alarm donations to communities in need — up to a total retail value of $1,000,000. For more information, visit Kidde.com.

So, when do smoke alarms expire?

When in doubt, the rule to remember is “toss at 10, then start again.” In other words, residents need to replace their smoke alarms every 10 years, and no, not just the battery, but the whole alarm. Fortunately, The Home Depot has a wide range of Kidde fire safety products, from smoke alarms, which help detect smoke and carbon monoxide in one device — along with fire extinguishers (more on that below).

Home safety for every need

As mentioned, Kidde has a wide range of products that can be purchased at The Home Depot.

10-Year Worry-Free Smoke Detector

The 10-Year Worry-Free Smoke Detector is one of The Home Depot’s top-rated items. It includes ionization sensing technology that detects invisible fire particles and helps provide home protection even during power outages. To ensure you know when to replace this detector, it’s programmed to chip every 45 seconds when it reaches ten years.

Basic Use Fire Extinguisher, 2-Pack

Another best-seller, the Kidde Basic Use Fire Extinguisher is a fire safety item you’ll definitely want to have in your home. Many adults might not know how or when to use fire extinguishers (or even own one). Luckily, Kidde and The Home Depot offer some guidance that can help anyone learn fire extinguisher basics. This easy-to-use extinguisher can help address common house fires that involve wood, paper, fabrics, and flammable liquids.

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Firex Plug-in

One of the great features of Kidde solutions is its easy installation. With the Kidde Firex Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector, families can rest easy knowing they’re covered — without having to spend time or money on placing it in their homes. Simply plug it into your wall outlet, and it’s up and running. The plug-in uses electrochemical sensors to alert you if any poisonous, invisible, or combustible gases are detected.

Code One Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Combination Detector

This battery-operated combination alarm provides your family detection of fire and carbon monoxide, thanks to its dual-sensing technologies. A voice warning will sound off if you’re ever exposed to smoke or carbon monoxide to ensure fast action. Plus, with the detection capabilities of an ionization smoke sensor, this detector is more likely to detect smaller, less visible fire particles, like those produced by flaming fires.

10-Year Worry-Free Carbon Monoxide Detector

This 10-Year Worry-Free Sealed-In Lithium Battery Carbon Monoxide Detector is easy to install and alerts you and your family when elevated carbon monoxide levels are present. This alarm is powered by a non-replaceable 10-year sealed-in long-life lithium battery. And the best part? Hardwire installation is not required and there’s no need to change the batteries over the 10-year life of the alarm.

Why fire safety is so crucial

Every day, at least one child dies from a home fire and another 293 are injured from fires or burns. Additionally, elderly people are also at a higher risk of dying in a residential fire (2.5x more likely than the rest of the population, according to Kidde). By shining a light on the most vulnerable populations, Kidde is hoping to make fire safety a priority in every home. For more information on Kidde support and resources, visit the website here, or The Home Depot for Kidde’s fire safety solutions.

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