The RACV is reminding Victorians to check their smoke alarms this daylight savings weekend. Picture: supplied
As Victorians prepare to wind their clocks forward for daylight saving this weekend, they need to check their smoke alarms as well.
The reminder was delivered by the RACV and Country Fire Authority (CFA) who say this simple act could be the difference between life and death in a house fire.
RACV Head of Policy James Williams said with an average of 3000 house fires in Victoria each year, the importance of functional smoke alarms cannot be overstated.
“RACV is urging everyone to take a moment this weekend to ensure you have reliable smoke alarms installed at your home,” Williams says.
“An operational smoke alarm can allow us the precious seconds we need to evacuate safely in the event of a fire emergency.
“If you’re unsure how your smoke alarm works, or unable to install or change an alarm yourself, seeking a qualified professional to do the job is the best thing you can do,” he says.
RACV reminds tenants that while rental providers have to maintain smoke alarms, any concerns must be promptly raised with the property manager.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan also stressed the importance of regularly testing smoke alarms.
“Without a working smoke alarm, you may not wake up in time to escape safely in the event of a fire,” he says.
“We recommend testing your alarms monthly. It’ll take only a few minutes of your day and could save lives.
“The more coverage of smoke alarms you have in the home, the more likely you are to wake up, so have them installed in the bedroom, living area, the hallway, even the games room, you can’t have too many,” Heffernan says.
“It’s a good idea to install smoke alarms powered by 10-year lithium batteries, a small investment that will provide reliable protection for a decade.”
Country Fire Authority (CFA) tips:
- Monthly checks of all smoke alarms;
- Installing alarms powered by 10-year lithium batteries;
- Interconnecting alarms throughout the home;
- Placing alarms in every bedroom, living area, and hallway.
Smoke alarm warning signs:
- Yellowing of the alarm unit;
- Continuous ‘chirping’ sounds;
- Unexplained activations.
For more information on smoke alarm safety and fire prevention, visit cfa.vic.gov.au or for assistance with smoke alarm installation, visit racv.com/trades.
