Smoke Alarms
How do I know if my home requires additional smoke or carbon monoxide alarms?
The required number of smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms by Building Regulation may not
provide early warning and protection in areas of your home where a door separates protected areas
from unprotected areas.
Battery only alarms will not meet the requirements of Building Control for New Build/Refurbishments
etc; these must be hard wired alarms.
For this reason, it is recommended that the household consider the use of additional smoke alarms
and carbon monoxide alarms in these areas for increased protection. The additional areas may
include a basement, bedrooms, dining room, utility room, and hallways. We recommend at least one
carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your home.
Where should I locate my smoke alarm in the home?
Smoke alarms should be mounted in or near bedrooms and living areas, either on the ceiling or the
wall. Ceiling mounting it is typically preferred as it allows the smoke alarm to be placed more centrally
in the room. If wall mounting is used it is best to use an inside wall to avoid thermal air currents that
can occur along hot or cold walls. Our units have been tested and will perform between 40 degrees
and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
How should I dispose of my old smoke alarm?
Typically, smoke alarms should not be disposed of with your regular domestic waste. They should be
disposed of in accordance with WEEE regulations.
Single alarms can be disposed of in the household waste stream if your local recycling has no special
smoke alarm arrangements, but ideally they should be taken to your local recycling facility and
disposed of alongside other small electrical equipment.
How many smoke alarms should I have in my home?
Kidde recommends a minimum of one smoke alarm per floor, and one per bedroom or sleeping area,
so for a typical 3-bedroom home on two levels we would recommend at least 5 working smoke
alarms. Alarms can be sensitive to cooking smoke and heat from a kitchen and steam from a
bathroom. Consider installing alarms away from these rooms if possible to avoid potential nuisance
alarms.
How can I tell if my smoke alarm is working?
The smoke alarm should be operating once AC power is applied, fresh batteries are installed and
testing is complete.
Testing procedures:
You can test your smoke alarm by pushing the Test/Hush button on the cover and holding it down for
a minimum of 5 seconds. This will sound the alarm if the electronic circuitry, horn and battery are
working. In an interconnected installation all interconnected alarms should sound when the test
feature on any one of the interconnected alarms is activated. If no alarm sounds, check the fuse or
circuit breaker supplying power to the alarm circuit. If the alarm still does not sound, the unit may
have defective batteries or another failure.
DO NOT use an open flame to test your smoke alarm, you could damage your alarm or ignite
combustible materials and start a structure fire. Test your smoke alarms weekly to ensure proper
operation. Erratic or low sound coming from your smoke alarm may indicate a defective alarm, and
should be returned for service (refer to your warranty).
How often should I replace my smoke alarm?
Kidde recommends replacing your smoke alarms every 10 years, and carbon monoxide alarms every
7 years. If you don't know how old your alarm is, look for the manufacturing date code on the back of
the alarm(s) or simply replace them to avoid any danger.
What is the difference between ionisation and photo-electric (optical) smoke alarm
technologies?
There are two types of smoke alarm technologies currently available to homeowners: ionization and
photoelectric. These technologies are sold in either single-station ionization or photoelectric smoke
alarms, or in a dual-sensor smoke alarm that combines both technologies into one unit.
Ionization smoke alarms sound when electrically charged ("ionized") particles released in a fire
interfere with the electrical current that flows through the alarm's detection chamber. The disruption in
the current causes the smoke alarm to sound.
Photoelectric smoke alarms sound when smoke particles interfere with, and reflect the alarm's light
beam that travels through the alarm's detection chamber, thereby triggering the alarm.
Because of these different detection technologies, ionization sensors are more likely to detect smaller,
less visible fire particles, like those produced by flaming fires, sooner than photoelectric sensors.
However, photoelectric sensors are more likely to detect larger, more visible fire particles, such as
those produced by smouldering fires, sooner than ionization sensors
Why does my smoke alarm beep or chirp?
Several things could be causing your alarm(s) to alarm briefly or "chirp" randomly without a regular
pattern.
First, you should verify how your alarm is chirping or sounding:
Consistently at regular time intervals (see consistent chirping) or randomly without a regular pattern
(see below)
If the unit chirps at seemingly random times or at random intervals (after replacing the battery) check
for the following conditions:
The battery may be loose, or improperly installed.
Verify that a battery of the recommended type is securely installed. Make sure to use a battery with a
use-by date no later than four to five years in the future. Check that the battery is snapped in
completely so it cannot be shaken loose. It's possible that battery connections may not be making
good contact with the battery. Disconnecting and re-connecting the battery once or twice will likely fix
this condition. On units with a front-load battery, be sure that the battery compartment door is closed
completely as well. Loose white neutral wire can cause an echoing chirp. (From one unit to the next)
The smoke alarm sensing chamber may be dirty.
Dust and insects can collect in the sensing chamber of the alarm. An accumulation of dust in the
sensing chamber can cause the unit to chirp. It is good practice to clean the smoke alarm when you
change the battery. Static electricity from the ac quick connector attracts dust and can cause false
alarms.
Cleaning smoke alarms:
To clean your alarm, remove it from the mounting bracket as outlined here. You can clean the interior
of your alarm (sensing chamber) by using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner hose and blowing or
vacuuming through the openings around the perimeter of the alarm. The outside of the alarm can be
wiped with a damp cloth. After cleaning, reinstall your alarm, verify the green LED is on and test your
alarm by using the Test Button. If cleaning does not restore the alarm to normal operation, the alarm
should be replaced.
Check environmental conditions:
Humidity, steam and condensation can cause false alarms. Causes of condensation are:
- Extreme temperatures changes.
- High ambient humidity.
Reset the alarm.
Some current model smoke alarms have a processor that retains certain error conditions, such as a
weak battery. The error condition should reset when the battery is replaced but sometimes it does not
and must be manually reset to clear the error.
To reset an AC unit with a battery backup:
Turn off the power to the smoke alarm at the circuit breaker. Remove the smoke alarm from the
mounting bracket and disconnect the power. Remove the battery. Press and hold the test button for at
least 15 seconds. The unit may chirp or alarm for a few seconds before going silent. Reconnect the
power and reinstall the battery. The unit will chirp once when the power is restored and should not
chirp afterwards.
To reset a battery-only unit:
Remove the battery. Press and hold the test button for at least 15 seconds. The unit may chirp or
alarm for a few seconds before going silent. Reinstall the battery. The unit will chirp when the battery
is first connected but should not chirp afterwards.
An electrical condition may be causing the power to the unit to be interrupted.
If the AC power to the unit is interrupted, the unit will chirp when the power is restored. This could be
caused by power surges. If the chirping seems to occur at about the same time in the evening or
morning, it could be due to a surge created when the power company switches electrical grids to meet
demand. Check to see if the chirp (or chirping) occurs when something else in the house is turned on
such as an exhaust or attic fan, a heater, etc. If the smoke alarm is connected to a circuit with such a
device, the alarm may chirp when the other device is switched on. If this is the case and the device is
plugged into a wall outlet, move it to another outlet on a different circuit. If it is a hardwired device,
have an electrician investigate it. These conditions can be minimized by installing your alarms on a
dedicated circuit in compliance with NFPA requirements.
Replace the alarm.
If none of these conditions exist and the suggestions don't alleviate the symptom, the alarm should be
replaced. Age may be a factor. Smoke and heat alarms should be replaced every 10 years, and
carbon monoxide and combination alarms should be replaced every 7 years. Most of our alarms have
a 5 year warranty from date of purchase (check your user manual for details). A date code is stamped
on the label attached to the back of the unit.
If the unit is out of warranty, please purchase a replacement product immediately.
If the unit is within warranty, please contact Kidde Safety on 0800 917 0722
What type of replacement battery should I buy for my smoke alarm?
We recommend you always refer to the product label found on the back of your alarm, or the user's
manual, to identify which type, brand and battery model is recommended for your specific alarm.
Alarms require fresh and powerful batteries and sometimes off-brand batteries, or those that have
been sitting on the shelf for several years, will not be powerful enough and may cause your alarm to
go into low-battery mode.
What should I do if my smoke alarm sounds?
When the alarm senses products of combustion and goes into alarm mode, the pulsating alarm will
continue until the air is cleared. If your unit is in Full Alarm and there is no presence of smoke, check
our Solution Finder to see Intermittent Chirping solutions.
What to do when the alarm sounds:
Alert small children in the home.
Leave immediately by your escape plan. Every second counts, so don't waste time getting dressed or
picking up valuables.
In leaving, don't open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot, or if you see smoke
seeping through cracks, don't open that door! Instead, use your alternate exit. If the inside of the door
is cool, place your shoulder against it, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke
rush in.
Stay close to the floor if the air is smoky. Breathe shallowly through a cloth, wet if possible.
Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and make sure everyone is there.
Call the fire department from your neighbour's home - not from yours!
Don't return to your home until the fire officials say that it is all right to do so.
IMPORTANT: Never Ignore the Sound of an Alarm!
How should I test that my smoke alarm is working properly?
Using the test button will ensure an accurate and complete test that your alarm(s) are working
properly. When testing interconnected units be sure to verify all the alarms in the system sound.
Aerosol products can be used to test a smoke alarm. If using this method be sure the follow the
instructions supplied by the manufacturer of the aerosol, and direct the spray so it enters the alarm
sensor area. The holes on the cover of the alarm are for the sound to emit. If the spray is aimed
directly at this area it will not enter the sensing chamber area. Smoke entry in an alarm is through the
opening around the perimeter.
Hold the aerosol about 2 feet away from the alarm. Make sure the can is parallel to the wall or ceiling,
depending on where your smoke alarm is mounted. This will allow the test spray to travel along the
wall or ceiling and enter the openings on the perimeter of the alarm.
NOTE: Excessive spraying at close range may permanently affect the smoke alarm's sensitivity.
NOTE: Igniting combustible materials to test your alarm is not recommended. An accident could
occur and result in a fire.
Why does my smoke alarm sometimes go off in cold conditions?
Your smoke alarm may sound when its very cold outside, or if a door adjacent to a heated area is
opened, like in an entryway. This is due to condensation (water vapor) in the detection chamber. The
sensor is a particle sensing device, when water condenses in the sensor the unit will go into alarm.
The operating temperature of a smoke alarm is between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4º C 37.8ºC). If the unit is in a garage or attic, you should consider replacing it with a heat alarm which is
not affected by condensation.
Will extreme temperatures affect my smoke alarm?
Our smoke, carbon monoxide and combination alarms have been tested and will perform between 40
degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4ºC - 37.8ºC). Reasonable exposure within these
temperatures will not cause permanent damage. We do not recommend operating these alarms at, or
outside these limits.
The test button of my smoke alarm does not seem to work
Check that it is being held down for at least 2 - 3 seconds, after which the alarm should sound.
Cigarette smoke (blown at alarm) is not setting off the alarm - is it faulty?
It is not easy for this to be concluded. Lots of 'un-knowns' such as smoke density, duration,
ventilations, type of smoke alarm sensor technology (ionization or photoelectric) etc…
Despite lots of visible smoke, my alarm did not sound - is it faulty?
Lots of 'un-known' factors such as smoke density, duration, ventilation, etc… alarms are 3rd party
approved but would be happy to test the alarm again
I am concerned about the small radioactive content within my smoke alarm. Is it safe ?
Yes - ionisation smoke alarms do contain a small amount of Americium 241 (a radioactive material).
However, when used as recommended this is totally safe to have in the home.
Which type of smoke alarm should I have in my home?
There are two types of smoke alarm technologies currently available to homeowners: ionization and
photoelectric. These technologies are sold in either single-station ionization or photoelectric smoke
alarms, or in a dual-sensor smoke alarm that combines both technologies into one unit.
Ionization smoke alarms sound when electrically charged ("ionized") particles released in a fire
interfere with the electrical current that flows through the alarm's detection chamber. The disruption in
the current causes the smoke alarm to sound.
Ion alarms do contain a small amount of Americium 241, a radioactive material.
Photoelectric smoke alarms sound when smoke particles interfere with, and reflect the alarm's light
beam that travels through the alarm's detection chamber, thereby triggering the alarm. These are also
known as Optical smoke alarms.
Because of these different detection technologies, ionization sensors are more likely to detect
smaller, less visible fire particles, like those produced by flaming fires, sooner than photoelectric
sensors. However, photoelectric sensors are more likely to detect larger, more visible fire particles,
such as those produced by smouldering fires, sooner than ionization sensors
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, tasteless and odourless gas that is produced when fossil fuels such
as coal, oil, natural gas, LPG, charcoal and wood are not burned efficiently. It can be produced from
poorly maintained or badly fitted domestic heating appliances such as boilers, wall heaters, wood
burners, blocked flues or exhaust vents.
How is carbon monoxide produced?
It can be produced from poorly maintained or badly fitted domestic heating appliances such as
boilers, wall heaters, wood burners, blocked flues or exhaust vents.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
The symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, sickness, tiredness and muscle pain - all of which
can easily be misdiagnosed as flu. It is therefore important to protect your family and home with a
carbon monoxide alarm.
Can I move my CO alarm around the home to monitor for CO in various locations?
Our carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are designed to act as a continuous monitor, not for short term
testing or to perform a quick check for CO levels. You should install your alarm and leave it in one
place.
Where should I locate my carbon monoxide alarm?
Carbon monoxide (CO) and combination alarms should be mounted in or near bedrooms and living
areas, no closer than 20cm from the ceiling. If mounting on a ceiling please make sure it is at least
20cm away from the wall. Because carbon monoxide is almost the same density as air, it will disperse
evenly throughout the air in a room. Our units have been tested and will perform between 40 degrees
and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
We recommend you install a carbon monoxide or combination alarm on each level of a multi-level
home. If your home has only one CO or combination alarm, it should be installed in the main
bedroom or in the hallway outside of the sleeping areas.
Place the alarm at least 1.5m away from fuel-burning appliances.
Make sure nothing is covering or obstructing the unit.
Do not place the unit in dead air spaces or next to a window or door.
CAUTION: Carbon Monoxide alarms will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide at the
sensor. Carbon monoxide may be present in other areas of your home.
Our hard wired ones are suitable for ceiling or wall mounting. Our plug ins have a trailing lead so if
your chosen electrical socket is low/near the skirting board, you can detach alarm sensor part and
mount higher up. However ensure the alarm is not covered by curtains, hidden behind a furniture,
etc...
Why does my digital CO alarm display a number in the 200's after pressing the test button?
Any time you push the Test/Reset button the unit will go through a series of test numbers that are
programmed into the unit to test the internal diagnostics of the unit. This will start out with an 888
reading, then display numbers usually in the 200 ranges, then back to 888, and back to zero. They
are not actual readings so you should not be alarmed and do not need to take any further action
How often should I replace the batteries in my CO alarm?
We recommend replacing batteries in all of your alarms at least once a year, or any time the unit
indicates the battery is low. When the battery requires replacement you must remove the old battery
and replace it with a fresh battery of the correct type. Click here to determine correct battery type.
Our alarms have a variety of different battery installation procedures depending on the model number
of your alarm. To determine your model number, please remove your alarm from the wall or ceiling
and look on the back label. Most alarms are attached to a mounting plate and can be removed by
turning the alarm anti-clockwise.
When should I replace my carbon monoxide alarm?
Kidde carbon monoxide and combination alarms should be replaced every 7 years and they all have
an end of life warning that will sound continuously when it is time to replace the alarm. If you don't
know how old your alarm is, look for the manufacturing date code on the back of the alarm(s) or
simply replace them to avoid any danger.
How do I reset the peak level memory button on my CO alarm?
While pressing the Peak Level Memory button, press the Test/Reset button for two seconds and
release both at the same time. The number on the display will turn to 0, the memory will be cleared
and the carbon monoxide (CO) alarm will begin monitoring for CO. The Peak Level Memory will also
reset when the unit loses power.
Why does my carbon monoxide alarm beep or chirp?
Several things could be causing your alarm(s) to alarm briefly or "chirp" randomly without a regular
pattern.
First, you should verify how your alarm is chirping or sounding:
Consistently at regular time intervals (see consistent chirping)
or
Randomly without a regular pattern (see below)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------If the unit chirps at seemingly random times or at random intervals (after replacing the battery) check
for the following conditions:
The battery may be loose, or improperly installed.
Verify that a battery of the recommended type is securely installed. Make sure to use a battery with a
use-by date no later than four to five years in the future. Check that the battery is snapped in
completely so it cannot be shaken loose. It's possible that battery connections may not be making
good contact with the battery. Disconnecting and re-connecting the battery once or twice will likely fix
this condition. On units with a front-load battery, be sure that the battery compartment door is closed
completely as well. Loose white neutral wire can cause an echoing chirp. (From one unit to the next)
The smoke alarm sensing chamber may be dirty.
Dust and insects can collect in the sensing chamber of the alarm. An accumulation of dust in the
sensing chamber can cause the unit to chirp. It is good practice to clean the smoke alarm when you
change the battery. Static electricity from the ac quick connector attracts dust and can cause false
alarms.
Cleaning smoke alarms:
To clean your alarm, remove it from the mounting bracket as outlined here. You can clean the interior
of your alarm (sensing chamber) by using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner hose and blowing or
vacuuming through the openings around the perimeter of the alarm. The outside of the alarm can be
wiped with a damp cloth. After cleaning, reinstall your alarm, verify the green LED is on and test your
alarm by using the Test Button. If cleaning does not restore the alarm to normal operation, the alarm
should be replaced.
Check environmental conditions:
Humidity, steam and condensation can cause false alarms. Causes of condensation are:
Extreme temperatures changes.
High ambient humidity.
Reset the alarm.
Some current model smoke alarms have a processor that retains certain error conditions, such as a
weak battery. The error condition should reset when the battery is replaced but sometimes it does not
and must be manually reset to clear the error.
To reset a battery only unit:
Remove the battery. Press and hold the test button for at least 15 seconds. The unit may chirp or
alarm for a few seconds before going silent. Reinstall the battery. The unit will chirp when the battery
is first connected but should not chirp afterwards.
An electrical condition may be causing the power to the unit to be interrupted.
If the AC power to the unit is interrupted, the unit will chirp when the power is restored. This could be
caused by power surges. If the chirping seems to occur at about the same time in the evening or
morning, it could be due to a surge created when the power company switches electrical grids to meet
demand. Check to see if the chirp (or chirping) occurs when something else in the house is turned on
such as an exhaust or attic fan, a heater, etc. If the smoke alarm is connected to a circuit with such a
device, the alarm may chirp when the other device is switched on. If this is the case and the device is
plugged into a wall outlet, move it to another outlet on a different circuit. If it is a hardwired device,
have an electrician investigate it. These conditions can be minimized by installing your alarms on a
dedicated circuit in compliance with NFPA requirements.
Replace the alarm.
If none of these conditions exist and the suggestions don't alleviate the symptom, the alarm should be
replaced. Age may be a factor. Smoke and heat alarms should be replaced every 10 years, and
carbon monoxide and combination alarms should be replaced every 7 years. Most of our alarms have
a 5 year warranty from date of purchase (check your user manual for details). A date code is stamped
on the label attached to the back of the unit.
If the unit is out of warranty, please purchase a replacement product immediately.
If the unit is within warranty, call Kidde customer service on 0800 917 0722
What should I do if my CO alarm sounds?
Press the test/reset button.
Call 0800 111 999 gas emergency hotline
Immediately move to fresh air. Either go outdoors or go near open doors or windows. Do a head
count to check that all persons are accounted for. Do not re-enter the premises nor move away from
an open door/window until emergency service responders have arrived, the premises have been aired
out, and your alarm is in its normal condition.
After following steps 1-3, if your alarm reactivates within a 24 hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a
qualified appliance technician to investigate for sources of carbon monoxide (CO) from fuel burning
equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this equipment. Any problems
identified should be corrected immediately. Make sure that motor vehicles are not, and have not
been, operating in an attached garage or adjacent to the residence.
IMPORTANT: Never Ignore the Sound of an Alarm!
WARNING! Activation of your CO alarm indicates the presence of Carbon Monoxide which can KILL
YOU.
What does it mean when the letters "Lb" are displayed on the CO alarms LCD screen?
This is a low battery signal. The capital L with a lower case b on your digital display is letting you
know the battery is low and needs to be replaced.
What does it mean to say that a CO alarm is "time weighted?"
Because carbon monoxide (CO) is a cumulative poison; two factors determine how CO affects your
body. The first one is the amount of CO present and the second is the length of exposure. Your alarm
is designed to react as the human body does to CO. A high level of CO will cause an alarm very
quickly while a lower level may take hours.
What does it mean with the LCD screen on my CO alarm displays the letters "ERR?"
After your carbon monoxide alarm is installed and operational, an ERR message is generally caused
by one of the following:
In the rare event that your alarm malfunctions, it will alert you with a short "chirp" and the red LED will
flash once every 30 seconds. If the unit is malfunctioning, you need to push the Test/Reset button,
hold it for 5 seconds, then release. If the reset is successful, the display will reset to zero. If it's an
actual malfunction, the unit will go back to ERR within 5 minutes.
Your alarm may have reached its End-of-Life Warning. Seven years after initial power up, this unit will
"chirp" every 30 seconds to indicate that it is time to replace the alarm. The unit will not detect CO in
this condition. Please replace immediately.
What does the number on my CO alarms LCD screen mean?
A digital display allows you to see if carbon monoxide is present and respond before it becomes a
dangerous situation. Peak Level Memory stores the highest recorded reading prior to being reset.
This feature enables you to know if there was a reading while you were away from home, and can
also help emergency responders determine the best treatment.
What does the Test/Reset button and peak-level button do on my CO alarm?
Any time you push the Test/Reset button the alarm will go through a series of test numbers that are
programmed into the unit to test the internal diagnostics of the unit. This will start with a 888 reading,
then display numbers usually in the 200 range, then back to 888, and lastly to zero. These are not
actual readings, so you do not be alarmed or take action.
The Peak Level reading is just a memory. At one point the unit was exposed to something that
caused the reading. It could have been a substance that was sprayed too close to the unit, paint
fumes, or actual carbon monoxide that caused the reading.
To reset the peak level, push the Peak Level button, and hold it down while you press and hold the
Test/Reset button for 2 seconds, then release them at the same time.
After this, monitor the unit for a few days to determine if this is a recurring problem or if it was an old
reading. If you don't get a reading, then you know it could have just been a random reading and you
have no other event taking place. If a reading does come back, reset the peak level again and start
watching it every one to two hours, and try to narrow down when the reading is happening and be
aware of what's going on around you (heat coming on or off, cleaning, etc.) to determine the source of
the reading.
What is the end of life warning on my CO alarm?
How to Determine if Your Alarm is at the End of its Life
Seven years after initial power, a Kidde CO alarm will begin "chirping" every 30 seconds. The chirp
will not stop until the unit is powered off.
You'll know that this is an end-of-life warning and not a low battery warning because replacing the
batteries will not stop the chirp. The chirp will stop only when the alarm is powered off. Note: the
alarm will not detect the presence of CO when in this mode. Replace the CO alarm with a new one
immediately.
Can I test my CO alarm is working by holding it against a car exhaust?
No - this is very dangerous and not reliable. All Kidde alarms are approved by BSI to the latest
European standard, EN50291. Pressing and holding the test button is a sufficient means of testing
that the alarm is fully operational.
Fire Extinguishers
Can my Kidde fire extinguisher be re-cycled?
Fire extinguishers have specific disposal requirements. In many cases, you can drop off the unit at
your local council recycling centre where it will be disposed of safely. If the extinguisher still has
pressure or powder content, you should empty it first before disposal.
Can I throw away my fire extinguisher after use?
Fire extinguishers have specific disposal requirements. In many cases, you can drop off the unit at
your local council recycling centre where it will be disposed of safely. If the extinguisher still has
pressure or powder content, you should empty it first before disposal.
How do I know if my fire extinguisher is still safe to use?
If the needle on the pressure gauge of your fire extinguisher is in the green/full area, and the
manufacture date is less than 10 years ago, your fire extinguisher is still good.
How can I find out the manufacturing date of my fire extinguisher?
For model PS1X-UK, this can be found printed around the neck of the cylinder (MM-YYYY). For any
other model, please call Kidde Customer Service on 0800 917 0722 for further assistance.
How should I use my fire extinguisher?
It is important to familiarise yourself with this procedure before a potential emergency. The
instructions are printed on the extinguisher cylinder and should be referred to. However, as a
standard guideline, stand 1.5 to 2 metres away from the fire and follow the four step PASS procedure:
P – Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.
A – Aim low at the base of the fire.
S – Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguishing agent. When the agent firsts
hits, the fire may briefly flare up. This is to be expected.
S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side, moving carefully toward the fire. Keep the extinguisher
aimed at the fire.
Can I recharge my Kidde fire extinguisher?
Kidde recommends that after use (or at end-of-life after 10 years) fire extinguishers are disposed of
safely and replaced with a new model.
How do I understand the ABC fire rating of my fire extinguisher?
An extinguishers rating is the measure of its fire fighting capability. An 'ABC' fire extinguisher is
regarded as 'multi-purpose' and should be suitable for the types of fires most commonly found in the
home or vehicle; A = wood, paper, textiles; B = petrol, oil, paints; C = flammable gases
Is my Kidde fire extinguisher safe for use on electrical appliances?
Check your extinguisher label, but most dry powder extinguishers are safe for use on electrical
appliances, but note that they may cause permanent damage to the electrical appliance, such as
computer, microwave, etc… Please call Kidde Customer Service 0800 917 0722 for further
information
What powder is used in my Kidde fire extinguisher?
Kidde ABC dry powder extinguishers use a chemical called mono-ammonium phosphate, a non-toxic
agent that stops the fire's chemical reaction and inhibits reigniting in class A fires.
What should I do if somebody accidently gets the powder in their eyes?
Rinse your eyes immediately with cold water for 15 minutes. If irritation persists consult a doctor. Do
not swallow.
Can I use a fire extinguisher on my chip / fat pan fire?
No - for this type of fire a fire blanket should be used. Using a fire extinguisher is not recommended
because the powerful spray could spread the hot oils and flames around the kitchen, resulting in
increased danger.
What temperatures can my Kidde fire extinguisher be stored at?
The model PS1X-UK can be stored between -30ºC to + 60ºC.
How do I clean up fire extinguisher powder?
Large amounts of powder can be swept up, then for smaller amounts of loose powder a vacuum
cleaner can be used
Can I take my fire extinguisher on a airplane as luggage?
No - this is a pressurised container. We recommend that you contact your airline for further
information.
I'm having difficulty attaching the bracket on my Kidde fire extinguisher
The bracket almost certainly does fit and has been especially designed for quick and easy
deployment. However if you are experiencing difficulties please call Kidde for assistance 0800 917
0722
Fire Blankets
What should fire blankets be used for?
Fire blankets are recommended for use on chip or fat pan fires, where is is not safe to use a fire
extinguisher due to the potential risk of spraying the hot oils around and causing greater danger
Can I re-use my fire blanket?
No - they are designed for single use only
Can a fire blanket be wrapped around a person whose clothing is alight?
Yes - fire blankets will prevent oxygen from reacting with the fire and so will extinguish it
Escape Ladders
Can I practise using my escape ladder before an emergency?
You cannot use your ladder to practice an escape. The ladder is packaged in such a way that once
deployed it may not be reused.
IMPORTANT: The ladder is designed for one time use only, and should only be deployed in the event
of a home fire emergency. Discard after single use. Repeat use of this product could result in severe
injury or death.
The reason the ladder is for a one-time use only, is because your ladder has been carefully
assembled to ensure proper deployment when needed. If the release strap is pulled to deploy the
ladder in order to practice for a fire, then there is no way that the ladder can be folded back the same
way it was when it was first purchased. The ladder can become tangled and in the event of an
emergency it may not properly deploy, therefore the amount of time that it would take to untangle in
the event of an emergency, it may be too long and create risk of injury or death. In a fire seconds
count, and the ladder needs to be deployed properly in order to provide an escape.
We strongly recommend you practice mounting the ladder for deployment as described in the
instructions, but during practices, DO NOT PULL THE RELEASE STRAP TO DEPLOY THE
LADDER.
Can my Kidde escape ladder be used on any type of window?
Our escape ladders do not fit all windows and have specific measurements. Before purchasing a Fire
Escape Ladder, we strongly recommend that you measure the width of your window from the inside of
the casing. Please refer to the following measurements:
The minimum width of the escape window for use of the ladder is 16 inches (.41 metres). The
maximum thickness or depth of the escape window opening is 11 inches (0.28 metres).