“This change is to keep our city requirements in line with the State of Iowa requiring smoke alarms to be powered by 10-year tamper-proof sealed batteries,” said Building Inspector Shawn George.

“What this means is that residents will no longer need to change out batteries approximately every six months as previously recommended,” he added.“These smoke alarms are powered by batteries that are intended to last the recommended 10-year lifespan of a smoke alarm.”

The updated requirements will begin March 1 and mandate that all smoke alarms must be 10-year, sealed, battery-powered, dual-sensor models listed in accordance with Underwriters Laboratories. UL is the national leader in fire safety research and certification. It also sets the criteria for the performance of smoke detectors.

“With so many electronics being used and faster burning furniture and other household contents being made with petroleum based/synthetic products, it is very important to have functioning smoke alarms inside all of the sleeping rooms, directly outside those sleeping rooms and at least one on each level of a home including the basement,” said George. ” With the proper smoke alarms installed, a faster detection time will help alert you quicker and give a person the best chance of escaping a house fire.”

This requirement does not apply to fire alarms, smoke detectors, smoke alarms, or related components that are part of a centrally monitored or supervised alarm system or use a low-power, radio frequency wireless signal.

According to George, this new rule will only change the city’s enforcement within rental properties, but George said it is still highly encouraged that homeowners also change out their existing battery powered smoke alarms for the 10 year sealed and tamper proof style alarms to protect themselves and their families.

Landlords with questions about the new requirement can contact George by calling 515-576-4551, Ext. 5.