What should residents do if they experience a malfunctioning smoke detector?

When residents experience a malfunctioning smoke detector, the best course of action is to contact a fire safety professional. This ensures that the situation is handled correctly and safely. Smoke detectors are critical safety devices designed to alert occupants about potential fire hazards, and any malfunction can compromise their effectiveness.

Having a professional assess the device means that they can diagnose the issue accurately—whether it involves a simple battery replacement, an electrical problem, or the need for a complete unit replacement. This action aligns with best safety practices, ensuring that residents maintain a safe living environment and reduce the risk of undetected fires.

Other options, such as continuing to use the malfunctioning detector, waiting for the next scheduled test, or simply resetting it without verification, can lead to dangerous situations. These approaches do not address the underlying problem and may give residents a false sense of security, putting lives at risk. Therefore, contacting a fire safety professional is the most responsible and effective step to take when encountering issues with a smoke detector.