Free template · updated November 3, 2026

Smoke and CO alarm instructions for guests (template)

Guests should know where the alarms are and what to do in the first minute after one sounds. The two alarms ask for different reactions: smoke means check for fire and get out, carbon monoxide means get out now even if you feel fine.

This template lists the alarms, explains the sounds and the low-battery chirp, separates real smoke from burnt toast, and asks guests never to cover or disconnect them. Fill in your locations, your meeting spot and the local emergency number.

The template

Replace anything in [brackets] with your own details.

Where they are

Smoke alarms: [Smoke alarm locations]
Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms: [CO alarm locations]
[Combination alarm note, e.g. The alarm in the hallway does both.]
Fire extinguisher: [Extinguisher location]. Exits: [Exit routes].

What the sounds mean

Many alarms beep in threes for smoke and in fours for CO. Ours: [Alarm sounds].
A single chirp every minute or so means a low battery. Please text us. Don't take the battery out.

If a smoke alarm goes off

If you see fire or smoke you can't explain, get everyone out straight away. Close doors behind you.
Meet at [Meeting spot] and call [Emergency number] from outside. Please don't go back in.
Burnt toast or a steamy shower? Open a window, fan the alarm with a towel, and press [Hush button] to quiet it.

If a CO alarm goes off

Get everyone outside into fresh air right away, even if nobody feels ill. CO has no smell.
Call [Emergency number] from outside. Stay out until the responders say it's safe.
Warning signs of CO include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and sleepiness.

Please

Don't cover, unplug or remove the batteries from any alarm.
No smoking or vaping indoors.
You're welcome to press the test button to hear what each alarm sounds like.
Address for emergency services: [Address for emergency calls]

Tips

Fit smoke alarms on every level and outside each sleeping area, and CO alarms near bedrooms if you have any fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage.
Test every alarm between stays, and replace alarms by the date printed on them.
Place kitchen alarms a little away from the stove, or use one with a hush button, so guests don't disable it.
Tell guests the emergency number for your country; visitors may only know their own.
Take a quick photo of each alarm for the house manual so guests can find them in the dark.

Put it on one guest page instead of a binder

Keegix turns your welcome book into one link and a QR sign by the door. Upload the binder you already have and AI drafts the page in about a minute, or paste this template in. Free forever for one property.

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Questions

Where should smoke and CO alarms be in a rental?

Smoke alarms belong on every level and near sleeping areas, and CO alarms near bedrooms in any home with fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. Check your local rules, which may require more.

What does a chirping smoke alarm mean?

Usually a low battery or an alarm that's reached the end of its life. Guests should tell the host rather than remove the battery.

What should guests do if the CO alarm goes off?

Get everyone outside to fresh air immediately and call the emergency number from outside. Don't go back in until responders say it's safe.

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https://keegix.com/house-manual/smoke-and-co-alarms/