🔥 Smoke Detectors Save Lives

A properly installed and maintained smoke detector can double your chances of surviving a house fire. Early warning saves time—and time saves lives.

🛠️ We Install Smoke & Carbon monoxide Detectors

Note: Devices must be provided by the homeowner. We also have a partnership with the American Red Cross, see below for more information.

âś… How to Install Your Smoke Detector

Hard-Wired Detectors

  • Must be installed by a licensed electrician.
  • If plugging into an outlet:
    • Ensure it’s not connected to a wall switch that could accidentally cut power.
    • Use a restraining device to prevent the plug from being disconnected.

Battery-Powered Detectors

  • Can usually be installed by the homeowner.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s placement instructions.
  • Unsure? Contact your local fire department for free guidance.

🏠 How Many Detectors Do You Need?

For basic protection, install detectors:

  • Outside every sleeping area
  • In all basements
  • On every level of your home

Placement Tips:

  • Mount on the ceiling center, or
  • On the wall 6 to 12 inches below the ceiling
    This allows the detector to catch smoke rising and spreading toward sleeping areas.

đź’ˇ For heavy sleepers, install a smoke detector inside the bedroom as well.

🔧 Smoke Detector Maintenance

Keep your smoke detectors reliable with these three simple steps:

1. Vacuum Monthly

Gently remove dust and cobwebs to keep air vents clear.

2. Test Monthly

Use the test button to make sure the alarm works—follow manufacturer guidelines.

3. Replace Batteries Annually

Change the battery each fall when setting clocks back for daylight saving time.

⏳ When to Replace Your Detector

Smoke detectors don’t last forever!
If your detector is 10 years or older, replace it with a new one to ensure reliable protection.

🔥 Partnership Spotlight: Sound the Alarm with the American Red Cross

The West Hills Regional Fire Department is proud to partner with the American Red Cross in their life-saving campaign, “Sound the Alarm, Save a Life.”

This nationwide initiative brings together local fire departments, volunteers, and national partners to reduce home fire deaths and injuries by ensuring families have working smoke alarms and know how to respond in the event of a fire.

🛠️ What We Do Together

As part of this partnership, our department helps:

  • Identify high-risk homes in our response area
  • Install FREE smoke alarms
  • Educate families on home fire safety and escape planning

Together with Red Cross volunteers, we go door-to-door ensuring our community is safer—one home at a time.

đź“Ť Are You in Our First Due Response Area?

If you live within the West Hills Regional Fire Department’s First Due Response Area, you may be eligible for a free smoke alarm installation through this program.

👉 Call 833-315-0882
đź“ž Follow the prompts to schedule your appointment

There is no cost for the alarms or installation—our goal is simply to keep your household safe.

🤝 Powered by Partnership

This program is made possible thanks to a nationwide collaboration with the American Red Cross, along with support from State Farm, FEMA, and local first responders like our team.

Together, we’re working to make fire safety accessible for everyone.

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