Your Smoke Alarms
It's important to make sure your smoke alarms are in working order to keep you and your family safe.
Testing
We will test your alarms annually during your Gas/Heating Service visit, you should aim to test them yourself on a weekly basis. To test an alarm, press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. If the alarm fails to sound then it may be faulty and you should report it as a repair.
If an alarm is out of your reach then you could ask a family member, neighbour or friend to test it for you or you could also use a broom handle or pole to push the test button.
Cleaning and maintenance
All alarms are prone to dust ingress, which can cause false alarms or failure to alarm. To keep your alarm in good working order you should keep it clean and free from dust. You must never paint any part of an alarm as this can cause the alarm to become faulty. You should also never disconnect or remove the batteries from any of your alarms.
Hearing loss
If you struggle to hear an alarm sounding due to deafness or hearing deterioration, please get in touch with us as there may be alternative alarms more suited to your needs.
Contact us Contact usFaults and repairs
If one or more of your alarms has become faulty, then you must report it as a repair. Faulty alarms are replaced free of charge. You can report a repair on our website, mobile app or by phone on 0800 587 438.
Report a repair Report a repairIf your smoke alarm sounds
Check for fires, if a fire is discovered:
- Alert your household and leave immediately
- Before you open a door, check it with the back of your hand. If it’s warm, don’t open it – fire is on the other side.
- As you leave, close doors behind you to prevent the spread of smoke and fire.
- Call the fire service from a mobile or neighbours house.
- Do not return to your home unless advised by fire brigade.
Protect your household
You can find more in-depth information on a range of fire safety issues on the Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service website. You can also request a free home visit, where local fire staff will discuss ways to keep you and your family safe, as well as how to plan a safe escape route.
They can be contacted on 0345 223 4221 or through their website.