What is the recommended distance between smoke detectors in a building?

The recommended distance between smoke detectors in a building is generally 20 feet. This guideline is based on fire safety standards that aim to ensure adequate coverage throughout a space while minimizing the chances of having areas that are not monitored by a smoke detector. The spacing helps to detect smoke effectively and promptly, ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants.

Maintaining a 20-foot distance allows for optimal performance of the smoke detectors as they can pick up smoke from various sources, such as cooking or electrical malfunctions, within a reasonable range. It's important to position the detectors away from areas where false alarms might occur, like near kitchens, which some other options might imply if they are too close. Following this spacing guideline is vital for compliance with safety regulations and for enhancing the early warning capabilities of fire detection systems.