Don't Wait, Check the Date!   But Why?

Answer: Smoke alarms are only good for 10 years! 

“Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents our effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. Read more from NFPA Journal.

As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement with a focus on these key messages:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. This includes wired and battery operated detectors. 
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.
• New smoke alarms come with a sealed 10-year battery. Their batteries cannot be replaced. 
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly. 

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week