Environmental Health

Lesson 3: Local Laws

Local Law 62 - Smoke Detectors

Local Law 62 requires every owner of a residential multiple dwelling in the City of New York to install smoke detectors in all occupied apartments. Additionally both the NYC Building Code and Fire Code regulations require that smoke alarms are in place and in proper working order in all occupied apartments.

The purpose of smoke detectors is to alert residents of a potential fire, especially at night when residents are sleeping and may not become aware of a fire. The detector has an alarm that is set off in the presence of smoke or heat. It is important that each unit be properly installed and maintained. In the event of unwanted recurring alarms, PLEASE, don’t risk your life or safety by removing batteries from your smoke detector or by disconnecting it. Instead, try these tips:

When normal cooking or tobacco smoke accidentally causes an alarm to go off, try fanning the area around the detector with a newspaper, magazine, or towel until the smoke chamber is clear.
Shower steam can trigger false alarms. Ventilate the area by opening a window or turn on a fan until the smoke chamber is clear and the alarm stops sounding.
Clean all smoke detectors at least every six months or every time the battery is replaced – whichever is sooner. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
Replace the batteries in your smoke detector at least twice a year. Make the scheduled days on your calendar as a reminder.
If you hear a chirping sound from the detector or if the red light is not working, DO NOT IGNORE IT. This is a warning signal that the batteries need to be replaced.