Domestic smoke alarms DG525
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries. Domestic smoke alarms (DG525) was written by Emma Warren and published by BRE on 25 May 2012.
UK fire statistics show that you are almost twice as likely to die in a domestic fire where there is no working smoke alarm. Smoke alarms in homes are easy to use, inexpensive and can save lives giving early warning of fire, allowing occupants to safely escape. They are simple, self-contained but often interconnected units, incorporating a smoke detector, power source and alarm sounder. There are two types of domestic smoke alarm in common use: one is fitted with an ionisation smoke detector, the other with an optical or photoelectric detector.
DG525 provides guidance on the types of domestic smoke alarm available, and on their correct specification, location, installation and maintenance. It reviews recommendations in the relevant regulatory guidance and the use of third-party-approved fire detection and alarm products and installers.
It is intended for UK house builders, building control officers, specifiers, manufacturers, building owners and the fire and rescue services. It may also be of use to professionals in other countries.
The contents of the 8 page information paper are:
- Introduction.
- Types of smoke alarm.
- Interconnection.
- Power sources.
- Selecting smoke alarms.
- Specifying fire detection and alarm systems.
- Installation and siting.
- Maintenance.
- Summary.
- References.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BS 5839-1.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Carbon monoxide detector.
- Fire detection and alarm system.
- Fire detector.
- Fire.
- Ionisation smoke alarm.
- Multi-sensor alarm.
- Optical smoke alarm.
- Smoke detection in high ceiling spaces.
- Smoke detector.
- The causes of false fire alarms in buildings.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.
Building safety levy for England
CIAT publish estimator tool for members.
Water sector faces a growing crisis that could slow the delivery of vital infrastructure.

















