Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms that are properly installed and working correctly greatly increase the survival rate of occupants of a building in the event of a fire.

There are two types of smoke alarms available for residents on the market:
ionisation smoke alarm; and
photoelectric smoke alarm.

The photoelectric smoke alarm may be more effective in detecting smouldering fires. We recommend that as your ionisation smoke alarm becomes faulty or nears its expiry date (usually ten years) you consider replacing it with a photoelectric smoke alarm.

REMEMBER WORKING SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES.

1. Smoke alarms should be installed in or near bedrooms or where people sleep;
2. If you have a multi level home, a smoke alarm should be installed on each
   level;
3. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly;
4. Keep the smoke alarm clean, vacuum the cover and vents of the alarm
   regularly;
5. If your smoke alarm should go off accidentally open doors and windows and
   use a newspaper or magazine to fan the smoke away from the alarm;
6. Batteries should be replaced once a year at the end of daylight saving;
7. Install the smoke alarm as per manufacturers instructions;
8. A 240 volt smoke alarm with battery backup and interconnected with other
   smoke alarms is a preferred option;
9. Smoke alarms for the deaf and hard of hearing are also available;
10. Smoke alarms should be compliant with the Australian Standard; and
11. When your smoke alarm activates, if safe, investigate and if necessary follow
    your Home Evacuation Plan.