Number of Alarms to Install
Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and near or inside sleeping areas. Don't install alarms in kitchens, bathrooms, or garages - places that tend to accumulate smoke and will set off nuisance alarms unnecessarily.
Where to Install Smoke Alarms
Smoke rises, so be sure to place alarms high on the wall or on the ceiling to achieve the best source for detection. Also in stairways where smoke would travel upwards. Do not mount alarms near windows, by doors, or a forced-air register.