Select a ceiling location for the alarm. It is widely recommended to place an alarm in the main hallway area of each floor, although this depends on the size and layout of a home. Do not place a standard smoke alarm within one metre of a kitchen as the alarm will sound anytime you cook; this also applies to areas near steamy showers or baths due to the density of the steamy air being mistaken for smoke. Remove the cover from your new alarm; follow the manufacturer’s guidelines if you are unsure of how to do this. Position the alarm up against the ceiling and with a pencil, mark the locations where screws will have to hold the appliance in place.

Place the alarm down again and drill in the marked screw locations.

Insert suitable wall plugs and lightly tap them into position with a hammer.

Position the new alarm up against the ceiling again. This time secure it in place with screws.

Put batteries into the alarm and press the test button. You should continue to test your alarm once a week. It is recommended to replace your smoke alarm every 10 years. A carbon monoxide alarm should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.