What is the minimum distance between smoke alarms in a residential setting?

In a residential setting, the minimum distance between smoke alarms is typically guided by safety regulations to ensure effective coverage and early detection of smoke. The correct answer indicates that smoke alarms should be placed no further than 15 feet apart. This distance helps ensure that a person in any area of the home will hear the alarm if it goes off, providing vital time for evacuation and response in an emergency.

When smoke alarms are spaced this way, it maximizes safety by reducing the chances of a dead zone where smoke might not trigger an alarm. The choice of 15 feet strikes a balance between providing adequate coverage and allowing for practical installation considerations. Smoke alarms should also be placed in key areas such as sleeping rooms and hallways to ensure optimal functionality in case of a fire.