A smoke alarm may "chirp" every 30 to 60 seconds or so when something is wrong. This could be an indication the back-up battery in a hard-wired alarm is low, there is dust build up in the alarm causing a false reading or that the alarm is at the end of its 10 year service life and the alarm needs to be replaced. Usually the problem is resolved by replacing the battery UNLESS the alarm is a sealed, 10-year battery-only alarm (required as of 1/1/2018) in which case the entire alarm needs to be replaced. Dust/vacuum around the alarm.

If the alarm continues to beep after battery replacement, consult manufacturer instructions. Many units have "reset" buttons. If the smoke alarm is easily activated by cooking or showering, it should be relocated or replaced with a different type of smoke alarm. A free home safety check can be scheduled w/ MCFRS who can provide guidance on replacing smoke alarms and assistance with the installation of battery powered smoke alarms. For smoke alarms that are hard-wired into the homes electrical power it is recommended that a licensed electrician or professional should be contacted. MCFRS is not permitted to replace hard-wired alarms.

If there are no working smoke alarms in the home and the homeowner is incapable of obtaining and installing smoke alarms, please direct the call to be handled by non-emergency 301.279.8000 call-takers who will dispatch a non-emergency service unit to assist the homeowner.