Where should I install smoke detectors?

The safest recommendation is to put one in every room, but most people are not willing to do this. The simplest rule is to mount one between the bedrooms and the rest of the house, but closer to the bedrooms. If there is more than one sleeping area, each should have its own alarm. In multi-level homes, install one on each level, and if possible have them interconnected so any one unit will sound the alarm throughout the house. The basement ceiling, near the steps, is a good location for extra protection.
 

My smoke detector beeped last night, but there was no smoke. What is wrong with it?

This is a warning signal that the batteries are low. If your alarm is more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing it, just to make sure that you have one that is in good working order.
 

How long should a smoke detector last?

Replace any smoke detector that is more than 10 years old.
 

Do I need to worry about carbon monoxide in my home?

If you have a gas or oil furnace, dryer, refrigerator, water heater, space heater, fireplace, wood stove or gas range, then you need to be concerned. These can all be sources of carbon monoxide gas.
 

Where should I install carbon monoxide detectors?

They should be placed in the hallway near the sleeping area, and there should be one on every level of the home.
 

What is radon gas and how do I protect my family from it?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that can collect in hazardous concentrations in areas like the basement. A radon detector in your basement will help keep your family safe.
 

What is the best type of fire extinguisher to have in my kitchen and my garage?

A dry-chemical extinguisher marked general-purpose or multi-purpose is best for home use.
 

Where should I keep a fire extinguisher in my home?

Don't mount it too close to where a fire is likely to occur. For example, don't keep it next to the stove. A good place is at the top of the stairs or near a workshop. In most cases, it's a good idea to have a fire extinguisher for every 600 square feet of living space.
 

What products do you sell that will help childproof my home?

Child resistant locks on cabinets, electrical outlet covers, additional smoke alarms and gun locks are some of the products you should consider.
 

I need to attach my grill to my deck to deter it from being stolen. What do you recommend?

Aircraft cable is a good choice. You can swage both ends and use it with a padlock. It's more attractive than a heavy chain, and it can be used on many things - such as outdoor furniture.
 

What can I do to add security to my door?

Consider installing a stronger strikeplate - these are larger and have much longer screws.
 

What type of padlock holds up best in the weather?

While brass padlocks will hold up better in the weather than standard ones, most people are happier with the plastic weatherproof casing. Obviously, the brass ones provide a decorative option.
 

What features make a padlock stronger?

The high-security padlocks often have cases that provide a collar around most of the shackle. That makes it harder to get bolt cutters on them.
 

What kind of security system do I need to protect my doors and windows?

A perimeter system protects the doors and windows while an area alarm has a motion detector that protects entire rooms.