Ensuring the security and peace of mind of your short-term rental guests is as important as the aesthetic appeal and comfort of your space. Among the array of safety features, the choice of your home or apartment fire alarm system can be a life-saving decision that your guests rarely think about until they need it.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best and top-rated fire alarm systems on the market. We’ll review the best fire alarms available that cater to the unique needs of short-term rental accommodations and share key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

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What to Look For in Fire Alarms for Short-Term Rentals

Whether in a home or apartment building, short-term rentals come with their own set of challenges and needs. The most effective fire alarms for this setting should encompass the following features:

• Easy to install and maintain without professional help
• Smart fire smoke alarms tend to be better
• Possess visual and auditory signals for the hearing-impaired and in busy settings
• Have remote notification capabilities for the homeowner

Find the Best Fire Alarm System for You

Below, we will explore a range of fire alarm systems that are particularly suited for rental properties. From smart alarms that notify you of emergencies when you’re away to more traditional systems that are known for their reliability and ease of use, this section aims to give you a clear breakdown of the options available to you.

1. Google Nest Protect

With its sleek and modern design, the Google Nest Protect is more than just a smoke alarm. It comes with additional sensors to detect carbon monoxide, heat, and humidity and even features a pathway light that can guide guests to safety during a nighttime alert.

Key Features

• Multi-sensor detection for various threats
• Split-spectrum sensor for fast responses
• Connectivity with other smart home devices

Price Point

Available for around $150

2. Kidde Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm

For those looking for a more simple yet reliable option, the Kidde Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm is a trustworthy choice. Battery replacement is straightforward and requires no special tools, making it ideal for easy maintenance between guest stays.

Key Features

• Hush feature to silence nuisance alarms
• Test/reset button for regular maintenance
• Can be interconnected with up to 24 devices

Price Point

An affordable choice at under $20

3. First Alert BRK Smoke Alarm

The First Alert BRK Smoke Alarm is known for its comprehensive detection system and multiple sensor types. It is easy to install and comes with adapters for both battery-operated and hardwired installations, guaranteeing compatibility with various rental properties.

Key Features

• 360-degree photoelectric smoke sensing
• Senses carbon monoxide as well
• End-of-life signal for timely replacements

Price Point

Priced at $110 for a pack of three

4. Amazon Echo Dot

While the Amazon Echo Dot doesn’t have a built-in smoke detector, users can integrate their Echo with Alexa Emergency Assist to receive notifications and alerts in case of smoke or carbon monoxide detection. This feature is especially useful for those with hearing impairments. With this tool, you can keep your older smoke detectors and still have the added safety measure of voice alerts.

Key Features

• Voice notifications for smoke and carbon monoxide detection
• Can also be used as a smart home device for other functions
• Compatible with various smart home systems, including Ring and Nest

Price Point

Priced at about $50

5. OneLink Safe & Sound

The OneLink Safe & Sound is a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector with a built-in speaker and Alexa voice control. It connects to WiFi, allowing users to receive alerts on their phone in case of an emergency situation, and can also be used as a smart home device for music and other functions.

OneLink also offers the ability to connect multiple detectors throughout the house, providing whole-home protection. Note that OneLink requires a hard-wired connection, which can be inconvenient.

Key Features

• Built-in speaker for voice alerts and music playback
• Can connect to WiFi for app notifications and control
• Interconnectivity with other OneLink detectors for whole-home protection

Price Point

Priced at around $250

From the Fire Department to Alarms: Quick Fire Safety Tips for Hosts

Ensuring fire safety is paramount for hosts wanting to create a secure environment for their guests. Apart from installing advanced smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, there are several proactive steps you can take to minimize fire hazards. Here are key tips to enhance fire safety in your property:

• Regularly Check Smoke Detectors: Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Maintain Clear Escape Routes: Ensure that all escape routes are clearly marked and free of obstructions.
• Provide Fire Extinguishers: Place fire extinguishers in key locations such as the kitchen, near fireplaces, and on each floor.
• Implement Fire-Resistant Materials: When possible, use fire-resistant materials for furnishings and decorations.
• Educate Guests on Emergency Procedures: Provide clear instructions on what to do and whom to contact in case of a fire.
• Conduct Regular Maintenance: Keep the property well-maintained, with special attention to electrical systems, heating units, and cooking appliances to prevent potential fire risks.
• Suggest a meeting place: It is always good to suggest a safe meeting place for guests in case of an emergency. This can be outside the property, at a nearby park, or any other location that is easily accessible and away from the fire. A great place to include this information is in your house manual.
• Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Post emergency numbers, including your local fire department and nearest hospital, in visible areas throughout the property.

By taking these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire occurring on your property. If the fire alarm sounds – you’ll be ready!

Final Thoughts

Smart smoke detectors offer numerous benefits, such as remote notifications, voice alerts, and integration with other smart home devices. However, they can be more expensive than traditional detectors and may require a hard-wired connection.

It’s important to weigh the features and price points when considering whether or not to invest in a smart detector. Ultimately, the added convenience and safety measures may make it worth the cost for some individuals.

Additionally, it’s important to regularly check and maintain all smoke detectors in the home, regardless of whether they are traditional or smart devices. This ensures maximum effectiveness and safety for you and your loved ones. Stay safe out there!

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!