A modular smoke detector is adapted for mounting in an electrical equipment cabinet. The smoke detector module is of a standard size and configuration, thereby facilitating mounting anywhere in the cabinet. A mounting location near the bottom of the equipment cabinet is preferred to better detect the heavier than air combustion products of smoldering or burning insulation. The modular smoke detector includes a commercial ionization type detector and a fan. The fan induces air from the interior of the equipment cabinet into the module. The fan is positioned such that it does not discharge directly onto the ionization detector to prevent excessive speed of the air through the ionization detector.
