Each building in Colorado is required by law to have at least one smoke detector. Ideally they should be located in each bedroom, the hallway, and at the top of all stairways. Smoke rises, so the best place to install a detector is on the ceiling or high on an inside wall approximately 6-8 inches below the ceiling. However, do not install a smoke detector within three feet of any device that might blow the smoke away.

A battery-operated smoke detector, available at most hardware stores or building centers is sufficient. Be sure to test the batteries monthly and change them once a year.

To test the smoke detector, push the test button, or blow out a candle and hold it up so the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Either method should work. Batteries normally last up to one year, and usually the smoke detector provides an audible indication (a chirping sound) when the batteries become weak. As a reminder, the Aspen Fire Department suggests you change your clock and check your smoke detector batteries in the Spring and/or Fall of every year.