3 reasons why you need to test your smoke alarm today
Test your smoke alarm, avoid a false alarm
Did you know that when you’re asleep, you lose your sense of smell? That’s why you need your smoke alarm to stay awake and protect you. That’s also why it’s of the utmost importance to regularly maintain and test your smoke alarm and to replace batteries every year on April 1st. It’s no joke!
To give your family the best chance of surviving a house fire, QFES recommends installing smoke alarms to match the Australian Standards. Plus, a well-practised fire escape plan can also help provide a quick escape.
Above all, make sure all your alarms are functional and properly maintained so they can warn you in case of a real emergency. That way, you and your family will be protected at all times.
Common features in smoke alarms
Not all smoke alarms are created equal. But all of them should comply with the current legislation and have the same main functions, such as:
- Test button – to ensure correct operation.
- Scientific Services Laboratories approval – to comply with AS 3786-2014.
- ‘Hush’ buttons – to stop nuisance alarms (featured by newer models)
- Interconnection – allows all smoke alarms to sound simultaneously should any alarm activate. All occupants are alerted, maximising the opportunity for escape.
Why do you need to make sure your smoke alarm is functional at all times?
No matter how cautious we may me, there are hidden dangers that may be lurking in your home. Fortunately, your smoke alarm is there to protect you 24/7. And when you are sleeping, it literally becomes your lifeguard on duty. In fact, it can help save lives by providing occupants with an early warning about house fires.
So here are the main reasons why smoke alarms are a ‘must-have’ home accessory:
1. Safety
First and foremost, a smoke alarm can help you and your family leave your home quickly in case of a fire. For this reason, you need to have your local electrician install, check and maintain it for maximum effectiveness. Replacing the batteries should also be part of your safety routine.
2. Liability
If you’re a landlord of a property, you hold a duty of care to your tenants to provide functioning smoke alarms. Remember that only by doing tests and regular servicing you can keep your property and the tenants safe.
3. Legal obligation
Last but not least, it is required by law! While guidelines may differ from one state to the other, it’s still your legal responsibility to have a smoke alarm. Understanding the standards and any changes that may happen will help you keep your property compliant.
Don’t be an April Fool and change your smoke alarm batteries!
Sometimes, a small fire can start unnoticed and spread through the entire house in two to three minutes. That’s when a working smoke alarm provides early warning and time to escape. So remember, if you do not have smoke alarms installed in your home, you are:
- 26% more likely to suffer serious injuries
- 4 times more exposed to fatal risks
In conclusion, fire is nothing to joke about. For your peace of mind, ensure the right technical support to your smoke alarm and take that weight off your shoulders.
If you need any domestic electrical services, call Jaric Electrical at 1300 452 742 to keep your home electrically safe at all times!