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Why did my smoke alarm sound but there was no smoke?

Lately, we have been getting calls from concerned residents who are experiencing smoke alarms going off from something other than the usual known causes of smoke or steam. If this happens, there is a good chance that something else has triggered the smoke alarm such as a cob web or small insect. One of the best ways to avoid this problem is to vacuum around smoke alarms periodically. If the problem continues, it might be time to replace the smoke alarm.

After cleaning smoke alarms, check them to make sure that they are working properly.

As a reminder, install smoke alarms:

  • In every bedroom
  • Outside each sleeping area
  • On every level of the home, including the basement

Test your smoke alarms monthly and if your smoke alarms are more than 10 years old, replace them.

Learn more about smoke alarms and the Seattle Fire Department free smoke/co installation program.