As parents, we do whatever we can to keep our children safe. But sometimes, we don’t consider the dangers that are right under our noses. More than 50 Australians die in house fires every year. A reliable, working smoke alarm will alert you and your family in the event of a house fire.
Smoke alarms are an essential appliance for homes that can be instrumental in saving the lives of yourself and your loved ones. But they’re not just a good idea – smoke alarm installation is a legal requirement in all Queensland residential buildings.
Queensland legislation states that all homes build before 1 July 1997 must be fitted with at least one 9 volt battery operated smoke alarm, while homes built after July 1997 must have at least one 240 volt hard-wired smoke alarm. If a home built before this date is significantly renovated, the owner must upgrade the smoke alarm.
Even if you are not living in the property, you still have a responsibility to install and maintain smoke alarms. The legislation instructs landlords to test alarms and replace batteries when necessary or within 30 days prior to a new tenant moving in. The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Section 192) provides allowances for landlords enter occupied properties for the purposes of smoke alarm maintenance, subject to appropriate notice. Landlords must also provide a document detailing smoke alarm maintenance obligations at the beginning of a new tenancy.
Smoke alarms should be fitted outside sleeping areas and on each level of the home or unit. If you sleep with your bedroom door closed, you should also install an alarm in your bedroom. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services recommend photoelectric alarms over isonisation types, as they look for particles of combustion so are not as prone to false alarms. Alarms should comply with the Australian Standard AS 3786-1993 and have Standards Australia Mark or Scientific Services Laboratory (SSL) certification.
Smoke Alarm Do’s:
- Do install your alarm on the ceiling or at the very least, as high on a wall as possible. As we learned back in science class, heat rises.
- Check the battery once a month and replace batteries at least once a year
- Keep smoke alarms clean as dust can interfere with their operation
- Replace smoke alarms before their expiry date
Smoke Alarm Don’ts:
- Install alarms near windows, fans or air conditioners, as breezes and air movement can blow the smoke away from the alarm, rendering them ineffective
- Install alarms in bathrooms, kitchens or any area where smoke and steam can cause a false alarms
- Paint smoke alarms
- Turn off smoke alarms in the event of a false alarm – try turning on a fan or opening a window instead
With more than 20 years experience in domestic and commercial electrical services, Bevan Robinson Electrical are equipped to audit your home and deliver safe and practical smoke alarm solutions. Call us today to ensure the safety of your family.