Smoke Alarm Assessment Form

Smoke Alarm Program

Frederick County Fire and Rescue Department is committed to preventing fires in the home and ensuring the survival of residents should a fire occur.  The goal of the our smoke alarm program is to ensure all homes in Frederick County are protected by working smoke alarms.  Services our smoke alarm program includes:

  • Test existing smoke alarms to ensure they respond properly.
  • Check batteries and assist with replacement, if needed.
  • Identify the locations of smoke alarms, and if needed, provide recommendations of additional alarm locations.
  • Assist with the replacement of smoke alarms.  Free smoke alarms are available for homeowners who cannot financially afford to purchase them on their own.
  • Provide information on the proper maintenance and replacement of smoke alarms.
  • We do not share your information.

To make a request complete the online Smoke Alarm Assessment form or call the Fire Marshal's Office at (540) 665-6350.

Graphic of a house showing where smoke alarms should be installed in each room

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms save lives.  Every home needs smoke alarms.  They should be installed on every level of the home (including the basement), outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom.  A smoke alarm senses smoke.  It will sound if there is smoke in the home – possibly from a fire.  When the alarm sounds, everyone should leave the home right away. 

Having trouble with your smoke alarms?

  • If you hear a "chirping" sound, usually every 60 seconds, the battery is dying.  Change the battery immediately.  Once the battery is dead, you have no protection.
  • If changing the battery doesn't stop the "chirping" sound, it's time to replace your smoke alarm.

What if I can't reach the smoke alarm to change the batteries?

Contact the Fire Marshal's Office (540) 665-6350 or complete the smoke alarm assessment form and we will get you help.

How old is my smoke alarm?

A smoke alarm's age can be determined by looking at the back or side of the smoke alarm, where the date of manufacture can be found.  Smoke alarms should be replaced 10 years from that date (not the date of purchase or installation).

Important Links

Smoke Alarms Safety Tip Sheet