Because more people die from the poisonous smoke and gases from a fire than die from flames, the Elk Grove Village Fire Department recommends that you have smoke alarms in your home or apartment to provide early warning in the event of a fire. Working smoke alarms double your chances of survival and provide inexpensive protection for you and your family. Since most fatal home fires happen at night when you are asleep and are least able to respond quickly, early warning of a fire is critical.

Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of the house as well as in each bedroom and in hallways close to bedrooms. They should be mounted in the ceiling or on the walls according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid putting smoke alarms near return air ducts or air vents to prevent false alarms.

To be effective, smoke alarms must work, so test your smoke alarms monthly. Keep smoke alarms free of dust, replace the battery at least once a year, and keep fresh batteries on hand. Smoke alarms themselves should be replaced after five to ten years of service, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

If you have questions about smoke alarm installation or placement, please phone the Inspectional Services Division at 847-734-8020.