Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are required for all dwellings and must be inspected by the fire department prior to the sale of any property. The inspection verifies that both types of detectors are functioning and have been installed in accordance with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 148.
- Low Voltage type systems must be inspected by a fire alarm company, and a copy of the inspection report must be available to receive a certificate. If there is not a record of completion by a fire alarm company, the inspection will not pass.
- Battery-powered detectors must be 10-year sealed
- ALL SMOKE & COMBINATION DETECTORS MUST CONFORM WITH UL 217 & UL 2034 STANDARDS (check the back of the detector)
- **COMBINATION ALARMS MUST HAVE BOTH A TONE AND A SIMULATED VOICE ALARM TO DISTINGUISH THE TYPE OF EMERGENCY**
If you have any questions, please give the Fire Prevention office a call at 413-583-8332.
Safety Tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
- Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
- It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms so that when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- Smoke alarms have a shelf life of 10 years. Be sure to replace them after 10 years of use.
- Working smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.
- Familiarize yourself with the sights and sounds of a smoke alarm.
- When an alarm sounds, immediately exit the house or building and ensure each person inside the home is accounted for. Then call for help and await instructions from emergency personnel.