 The number and location of smoke alarms is more important than the type of smoke alarms you have. You are required by law to have smoke alarms between each sleeping area and the rest of the house. This is why you will often find them in a hallway or a main room of a house. Smoke alarms are also required on every level of the house and in escape paths, such as stairways. Early warning could save your life. Victorian fire services recommend that you also have smoke alarms in lounge or living areas and areas where people sleep, such as bedrooms. You might even consider putting one in the garage. For the best protection, having interconnected smoke alarms means that when one activates, they all will. Smoke alarms are not needed in kitchens, laundries or bathrooms. In these areas, they are likely to cause false alarms. Only working smoke alarms in the right locations save lives.