Getting the right fire detection system

Did you know that smoke alarms alone aren't enough? Everyone also needs a heat alarm in the kitchen, and some people need extra support. If you – or someone in your household – has a condition that may prevent or delay escape if there is a fire, you may need a specialist alarm system and advice to consider what to do in the event of a fire.

The National Fire Chiefs Council can help you find the right approach for your home with their guide. This is a free online tool that will assess the level of risk in your home with a few questions and suggest fire safety actions just for you. This could be booking a visit from your local fire and rescue service or some tailored online advice.

Smoke alarm or heat alarm – what's the difference?

Smoke alarms detect smoke – fit them in all rooms where a fire might start. But in smoky or steamy rooms like your kitchen or bathroom, a heat alarm is more suitable. These alarms go off when the room reaches a certain temperature.

Smoke and fire alarm must-knows

• Don't just fit a smoke alarm in your hall and landing – also fit them in any room where a fire can start. For example, any room where you smoke or leave appliances plugged in.
• Smoke alarms are not suitable for kitchens, but heat alarms are. Fitting a heat alarm in your kitchen will give you warning of an increase in temperature caused by a fire but will not be set off by cooking fumes.
• Some battery or mains alarms can be interlinked, so that when one alarm detects a fire, they all go off together, giving you warning wherever you are in your home. This is particularly important where a person has any issues that may prevent or delay their escape to ensure they are alerted to a fire as soon as possible.
• If you choose to have a mains-powered alarm, make sure it's installed by a qualified electrician.
• It's also possible to fit extra automatic 'fire suppression' systems at home – that's things like sprinklers. These are a great idea if there's anything that might prevent you escaping quickly.
• Your smoke alarm can save you and your family’s life, so never cover your smoke alarm , disconnect it, or remove the battery, and make sure you that you test it regularly.