What should be considered when installing smoke detectors in stairwells?

When installing smoke detectors in stairwells, it is essential to consider that they should be unobstructed and installed on the ceiling. Smoke rises, and placing detectors on the ceiling ensures that they can detect smoke from the earliest signs of a fire effectively. The unobstructed placement also minimizes the chances of false alarms caused by obstruction or interference. Additionally, ceiling installation is typically the most effective position for the sensor to perform optimally in various conditions within the stairwell environment.

While visibility is important for maintenance purposes, placing detectors at eye level may not be effective in smoke detection, and positioning them near fire extinguishers does not enhance their functionality, as their primary role is not directly related to the location of fire suppression equipment. Such considerations can lead to ineffective smoke detection strategies.