Test your Home Fire Alarm Device at least once a month using the test button, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let household members know first so they can hear what the alarm sounds like. If the alarm fails the test or gives a low-battery warning, check the manual and arrange the appropriate battery or device replacement promptly. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide
If the alarm sounds outside a planned test and there is smoke or fire, alert others, leave by a safe route and call 995 from safety. Avoid lifts during a fire evacuation. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide SCDF Civil Defence Resource Pack
- Use the manufacturer’s test button procedure each month.
- Check any warning chirp against the manual and restore protection promptly.
- Make sure everyone knows what to do when the alarm sounds.
On this page
- Do the monthly test
- Find out what a chirp means
- Check whether everyone can hear the alarm
- Frequently asked questions
Do the monthly test
Find the test button and use the procedure for your model. Reach the alarm safely and ask for help if it is too high. Let other people in the home know when the test will happen and listen for the response described in the manual. Record the check so you remember when it is next due. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide
Use the test button for the routine check. Keep open flames away from the device. If a test produces no sound, use the manual to check the fault and arrange repair or replacement through the responsible owner, installer or supplier. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide
Find out what a chirp means
Look up the model and its warning patterns. The response depends on whether the device has a replaceable battery, a sealed battery or a fault indicator. SCDF recommends alarms with built-in batteries designed for about ten years. For a sealed unit, follow the replacement directions when the low-battery or end-of-life warning activates. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide
Check whether everyone can hear the alarm
Ask someone to listen from the bedrooms during the planned test. If anyone cannot hear it reliably, ask the supplier or a qualified installer about a suitable accessible alert. Agree who checks on that person during an evacuation and who calls 995 once outside.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I use the test button?
SCDF recommends testing at least monthly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your device. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide
Is the smoke alarm a substitute for a fire escape plan?
Practise leaving by a safe route and know where your family will meet. The alarm gives early warning so people can act. SCDF Home Fire Alarm Device guide SCDF Civil Defence Resource Pack