Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

How far apart should smoke detectors be installed?

1. 20 feet

2. 25 feet

3. 30 feet

4. 35 feet

The correct answer is: 30 feet

The installation of smoke detectors is a critical component of fire safety in any residential or care facility, including nursing homes. The recommendation for spacing of smoke detectors is based on ensuring adequate coverage and prompt detection of smoke in case of a fire. In general, smoke detectors should be placed no further than 30 feet apart to ensure that there are no areas in a space that are left unprotected. This distance helps to ensure that the detectors can effectively sense smoke and provide an early warning to residents. It is important to consider that the effectiveness of smoke detectors can diminish if they are placed too far apart, as larger spaces may allow smoke to travel before being detected. Placing smoke detectors at intervals greater than 30 feet could result in delays in detection, increasing the risk for residents in the event of a fire. This guideline is consistent with fire safety codes and recommendations from fire safety organizations.