Maryland is the most recent state to require that homeowners replace battery-only operated smoke alarms with units powered by sealed-in, long-life batteries.
The updated law also requires that residential battery-operated smoke alarms be equipped with a “hush-button” feature that temporarily silences the alarm if activated by a non-emergency condition.
The law provides that each new residential unit constructed after July 1, 2013 must contain at least one smoke alarm in each sleeping room, in the hallway or common area outside of sleeping rooms, and in the hallway or common area on each level, including basements but excluding specified unoccupied spaces such as attics.
Fire Chief Steve Lohr said, “Smoke alarms are one of the most important safety features in your home, and while residents will have until January 1, 2018 to comply with the new law, we’re urging them to upgrade their alarms now.”
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