Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Only Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives
When you‘re asleep you lose your sense of smell. A smoke alarm is your electronic nose. It will alert you if there is smoke from a fire. A small fire can grow to involve an entire room in just two to three minutes. A smoke alarm provides early warning and time to escape.
CFA recommends you have a smoke alarm installed in every living area and bedroom in your home.
Smoke alarms are compulsory in every home.
Since 1 August 1997, Victorian law states that smoke alarms (complying with Australian Standards AS3786) must be installed in all homes, units, flats and townhouses. It is the responsibility of all owners and landlords to install working smoke alarms.
Homes constructed before 1 August 1997 need only standalone, battery powered smoke alarms. Homes constructed after 1 August 1997 must have smoke alarms connected to 240 volt mains power. These smoke alarms must also have a backup battery installed in the smoke alarm in case there is a loss of power.
3 Easy Steps To Maintain Your Smoke Alarm In Working Order.
1. TEST your smoke alarm MONTHLY
Press and hold the test button to check the alarm sounds.
2. DUST your smoke alarm ANNUALLY
Dust the alarm to ensure the vents are not obstructed.
3. CHANGE the battery ANNUALLY
Replace the 9V battery each year. Modern alarms have lithium batteries that can last 10 years.