The answer to 'do I need smoke detector' is yes, smoke detectors are an essential safety device that every home should have. Smoke detectors provide an early warning of a fire, allowing you and your family valuable time to safely evacuate. They are required by building codes in most areas and can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in a home fire.
Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your home, including the basement, and inside and outside of sleeping areas. They should be tested monthly and the batteries replaced twice a year. It's also a good idea to replace the entire smoke detector unit every 10 years, as the sensors can become less effective over time.