Like it or not, August is here! For many families, this means that preparations have begun for the back-to-school season. Your to-do list may be full of tasks like planning your children’s lunches, buying notebooks and backpacks, and making sure school uniforms still fit. While you’re checking boxes on your to-do list, we recommend that you add just one more simple task: test your home’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. 

It can be easy to view smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors as a “one and done” deal – however, this can be a dangerous – and even deadly – assumption. No device is infallible, and this is certainly true of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Although these devices are small, easy to install, and are relatively inexpensive, their upkeep and maintenance is often overlooked altogether. 

Take the time to walk through your home and observe the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors that are in place. How many are there? Where are they located? Are they functioning properly? 

At minimum, functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every floor of your home, with additional units near bedrooms (or any sleeping area). Testing your detectors regularly and replacing batteries – or the entire device – is a way to help ensure your family stays safe, even if there is a fire or a carbon monoxide leak in your home. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested at least once a month. In addition to this, batteries – or the entire device – should be diligently replaced according to manufacturer’s recommendations. If your detector often gives false alarms, it may be time to replace it. 

You can never be too careful when it comes to the safety of your home and family. Being proactive when it comes to testing and replacing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors could save your life! If you find that your home’s detectors are in need of replacement – or if you simply need more to ensure adequate coverage – Ace Hardware of Fort Collins has many options to choose from. 

First Alert Battery-Powered Photoelectric Smoke/Fire Detector

Featuring a low-profile, contemporary design, the First Alert Slim Battery-Operated Photoelectric Smoke Alarm provides the same protection as a standard smoke alarm while taking up only a fraction of the space. This slim smoke alarm uses an ultra-reliable photoelectric sensor to detect smoke from slow-burning, smoldering fires, and it features a patented smoke entry system that allows a direct path to the sensor for more reliable detection. The battery-operated smoke alarm requires no hardwiring for installation, making it an ideal solution for those who want to enhance fire safety without hiring an electrician. The simple twist-lock mounting system installs easily onto a wall or ceiling, while the tamper-resistant locks help prevent removal of the battery to keep the alarm secure. Half as thick as a standard alarm, the smoke detector has a sleek, slim design that blends in seamlessly with most decor. A loud 85-decibel alarm sounds when smoke is detected, and a convenient test/silence button lets you easily check alarm function and mute false alarms.

First Alert Battery-Powered Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide Detector

This First Alert carbon monoxide alarm features a 10-year built-in lithium battery for continuous monitoring during the life of the alarm, and uses an electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor and an 85-decibel alarm to alert you to CO threats. The advanced electrochemical CO sensor detects carbon monoxide leaks from multiple sources, such as faulty fuel-burning appliances, blocked chimneys, and generators running inside or too close to homes. Because CO evenly distributes itself, it’s important to have a CO detector on every level and in every bedroom of your home. This easy-to-use alarm features a digital display that shows ambient temperature as well as peak CO levels. The detector’s stylish design looks great on top of a dresser or table.

Kidde Nighthawk Plug-In w/Battery Back-up Electrochemical Explosive Gas and Carbon Monoxide Detector

The Kidde 900-0113 (Model KN-COEG-3) is a 120V AC-powered, plug-in carbon monoxide, propane and natural gas alarm with battery backup and a digital display. The 900-0113 is an easy-to-install unit that provides reliable protection against the dangers of carbon monoxide. The 900-0113 will detect and store measured data of concentrated CO levels as low as 11 and up to 999 PPM with its peak level memory display and will also display “Gas” if it has detected natural gas or propane. This alarm gives you several mounting options, including – direct-plug, a 6 ft. power cord or tabletop. The gas sensor is a metal oxide sensor designed to detect natural gas (methane) or propane.

First Alert Battery-Powered Photoelectric Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

The First Alert Ten-Year 2-in-1 photoelectric smoke detector with carbon monoxide alarm features our new slim design and maximum protection. It’s protection at its finest and lasts a full 10 years without the hassle and expense of twice a year battery changes. The sleek new design is half the size of standard alarms and looks elegant on your wall or ceiling, blending in easily with decor. Our patented smoke entry system allows for a direct path to the smoke sensor, helping to minimize nuisance alarms that often come from cooking smoke or shower steam. In addition, this combination alarm uses photoelectric smoke sensing technology that detects smoke particles most commonly produced by smoldering fires and a highly accurate electrochemical sensor to detect carbon monoxide gas. Loud 85 dB alarm sounds if hazard is detected. Single test/silence button mutes unnecessary alarms and tests fiction. Simple twist/lock mounting bracket makes it quick and easy to install your First Alert smoke alarms. End of life timer sounds when it’s time to replace your alarm. Backed by a 10-year limited warranty from First Alert.

First Alert 2-1/2 lb Fire Extinguisher For Household OSHA/US Coast Guard Agency Approval

The First Alert 1-A:10-B:C Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher is ideal for use in any household location designed to fight wood; paper; fabric; flammable liquid and electrical fires. This multi-purpose extinguisher fights wood; paper; fabric; flammable liquid and electrical fires. Durable metal head designed to meet demanding household requirements. If the unit is used; it can be recharged by a certified professional. Includes mounting bracket to keep the unit secure. 10-year limited warranty. Meets UL standards.

Ace Hardware of Fort Collins carries everything you need to ensure the safety of your home and family. While you’re out and about doing your back-to-school shopping, stop by Ace Hardware of Fort Collins on Harmony – our team of experts will make sure that your home is well equipped for any emergency.