The complete homeowner’s guide to carbon monoxide, smoke & heat detectors in the UK

Whether you’re firing up the barbecue, hosting garden parties, or just relaxing outdoors, it’s easy to overlook the fire and carbon monoxide (CO) risks that can come with the season. From stray sparks at a firepit to overloaded outdoor extension leads powering garden lights, small oversights can quickly become serious hazards. And while summer feels like the season for relaxing, this is exactly when staying vigilant with your fire alarms, heat detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors matters most.

This guide combines seasonal safety tips with expert advice on selecting, installing, and maintaining your home’s detectors, so you can enjoy the summer and stay protected all year round.

Why CO & fire detectors matter

Carbon monoxide: the silent killer

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas produced by incomplete combustion of fuels such as gas, wood, coal, and oil. Without a working carbon monoxide detector, you may not realise there’s a leak until it’s too late. Symptoms often mimic the flu or a summer cold with headaches, dizziness, and nausea but can escalate to unconsciousness or even death.
In the UK, carbon monoxide detector regulations make CO alarms mandatory in many homes, particularly where there are solid fuel appliances, and best practice is to have them in any property with gas appliances.

Fire alarms: your first line of defence

A fire alarm provides early warning, giving you and your family time to escape. Without it, a fire can spread unnoticed, especially at night when occupants are asleep.

Heat detectors: kitchen safety heroes

A heat detector for kitchen areas activates when it senses a rapid temperature rise, reducing false alarms from cooking fumes or steam. They are essential for rooms where smoke detectors may be unsuitable.

Types of detectors

Carbon monoxide detector vs alarm

CO monitor: Displays carbon monoxide levels but may not have an audible alarm.
CO alarm: Alerts occupants with a loud siren when dangerous levels are detected the best option for households.

Smoke detectors: mains vs battery

Mains smoke alarm: Connected to your home’s electrical supply with battery backup for power cuts. Ideal for long-term reliability and BS 5839-6 compliance. See our mains-powered smoke alarm installation guide.

Battery smoke alarm: Easier to install, often with sealed 10-year lithium batteries. Perfect for retrofits or as temporary protection.

Heat detectors: when & where to use

• Best placed in kitchens, garages, and lofts.
• Avoids nuisance alarms caused by smoke, steam, or dust.
• Works well alongside smoke alarms in an interlinked network.

Placement & installation best practices

CO detector positioning

• Install on every floor of the home.
• Place near bedrooms so alarms are heard at night.
• Mount at head height, following manufacturer instructions.
• Avoid corners, cupboards, or locations near windows/vents.

For step-by-step advice, see our installation guidance for CO detectors.

Smoke & heat alarm placement

Follow BS 5839-6 guidelines:

• Smoke alarms in hallways, landings, living rooms, and bedrooms.
• Heat alarms in kitchens.
• Keep units at least 300 mm from walls and light fittings.

Interlinking devices

• If one alarm sounds, all linked alarms activate. Read more about interlinked alarms.
• Available in hard-wired or wireless versions.
• Combo devices are available for smoke + CO, reducing installation time and visual clutter.

Summer safety spotlight: outdoor & seasonal risks

Barbecues

• Use only outdoors in open spaces — never on balconies or indoors (CO hazard).
• Keep away from fences, overhanging branches, and sheds.
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Have water or a fire extinguisher ready.

Firepits & outdoor fires

• Position well away from flammable materials.
• Supervise children and pets at all times.
• Fully extinguish before leaving the area.

Outdoor electrics

• Use weatherproof extension leads and sockets.
• Don’t overload plug sockets with lights or equipment.
• Inspect cables for damage before use.

Maintenance & testing

Test all alarms monthly using the test button.

For full instructions, see our testing and maintenance tips.

Lightly vacuum or wipe alarms every 6 months.

Keep free from cobwebs and grease build-up.

Yearly protection checklist

1. Install smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom.
2. Install heat detectors in kitchens and garages.
3. Place carbon monoxide detectors near all fuel-burning appliances.
4. Interlink alarms for maximum coverage.
5. Test monthly and clean twice a year.
6. Replace units at the end of their service life.

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