What is the first step in testing a smoke detector?

The first step in testing a smoke detector should be pressing the test button. This action allows you to verify that the detector is functioning correctly and can produce an audible alarm when needed. By testing the device, you can ensure that it is operational and mitigate the risk of failure during an actual emergency.

While ensuring the detector has fresh batteries and checking for dust accumulation are important maintenance tasks, they come after the initial testing step. Cleaning the smoke detector is essential for maintaining performance over time, but it usually occurs after identifying any operational issues. Therefore, starting with the test button is crucial, as it confirms the primary functionality of the smoke detector before considering any additional maintenance.