Clean smoke detectors using a vacuum cleaner attachment to remove dust and cobwebs.

If possible, carefully vacuum inside the unit as well. Press the test button on the smoke detector to see if the alarm goes off.

Depending on the manufacture of your unit, the button may only test the warning sound, but may not check the internal smoke detection circuitry. Some units, however, have more sophisticated test systems that simulate the presence of smoke in the chamber. Check the instructions of the detector to see if it has this feature.

Avoid lighting matches or candles under the detector to see is the alarm goes off, as repeated use of smoke to activate the detector can cause them to fail and not be available to operate during a real fire.