What must be considered when determining the location for smoke detectors in basements?

When determining the location for smoke detectors in basements, it is essential to consider that only finished areas are deemed acceptable for their installation. This is because finished areas typically contain higher levels of occupancy and activity, meaning that the likelihood of detecting smoke effectively when needed is increased.

Smoke detectors are designed to be most effective in locations where people are likely to be present and can respond to alarms. In finished areas, which may include living spaces or rooms with heating or cooling, the air circulation is more consistent, thus improving the detector's ability to sense smoke. In contrast, unfinished areas may not provide the same environment; they often have less human activity, and conditions such as high humidity or exposure to elements could impact the performance of smoke detectors.

Therefore, prioritizing finished areas for smoke detector installation complies with safety standards aimed at ensuring reliable and efficient protection against fire hazards in places where people actually spend time.