Check a smoke or carbon-monoxide alarm by its exact label identifiers and the identification method used in the CPSC notice. Depending on the notice, that may be a model, manufacturing date, FCC ID, serial code, package marking, or a combination of those details.
Identify the alarm without leaving the space unprotected
If the label can be reached safely, photograph the front, back, battery compartment, mounting label, and packaging. Do not rely on color or housing shape alone.
- Brand and company name
- Model and serial code, when printed
- Manufacturing date or date code
- FCC ID or other identifier specifically used by the notice
- Smoke, CO, or combination function and power type
Search recalls and safety warnings
Use the CPSC Recalls and Product Safety Warnings search. Try the exact model first, then the brand with “smoke alarm,” “carbon monoxide detector,” or “combination detector.” Open the result rather than relying on the search-result title.
Match the notice’s own identification method
Some alarm notices identify units by a date and regulatory ID instead of a conventional model number. Compare every listed code and the product photographs. A matching brand or date alone is not enough when the notice requires another identifier.
The required action can differ between alarms
One notice may call for replacement or refund, while a safety warning may give a different immediate action. Follow the current page for the exact alarm. CPSC notes that remedy availability can change, so reopen the notice before arranging a return or disposal and maintain working smoke and CO protection as directed.
A blank search does not test the alarm, confirm correct installation, or establish that it will warn occupants. If the device appears unsafe but no matching notice is found, use SaferProducts.gov or contact the manufacturer. The CPSC recall guide explains how to read the result.
Source pages checked: September 1, 2026 — U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall and safety-warning records.