A functioning smoke detector is the foundation of fire safety in housing

A smoke detector is mandatory in all homes. 

Smoke detectors can be either conventional battery-powered units or mains-powered units. Mains-powered smoke detectors also have battery backup in case of power outages. 

The function of a smoke detector is to detect a fire and alert those in the space as early as possible. In order for the smoke detector to react to smoke at an early stage and for the alarm siren of the smoke detector to be audible everywhere, the home must have a sufficient number of correctly placed and functioning smoke detectors. Because smoke rises, smoke detectors are installed on the ceiling of the room. 

There must be at least one smoke detector for every 60 square metres or part thereof.  In addition to the surface area, the placement of smoke detectors must take into account the shape of the home and room, as well as activities that pose an ignition hazard, such as charging electrical equipment. 

Smoke detectors must be kept in working order. Maintenance responsibility includes the regular replacement of smoke detector batteries and the replacement of the smoke detector when the device fails or expires. The service life of a smoke detector is usually up to 10 years.

According to the rescue services accident statistics, almost half of fires in residential buildings occur in homes without a functioning smoke detector. Based on other studies, it can be estimated that approximately 20% of homes have no smoke detector. The obligations to purchase and maintain smoke detectors are fulfilled better in detached houses than in owner-occupied or rental flats.