By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The CFA’s District 13 Command is continuing its vital community safety initiative by providing free smoke alarm installations to residents in the Kallista area.
This service is especially beneficial for vulnerable individuals who may have difficulty installing or maintaining smoke detectors themselves, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals facing financial or social challenges.
Kallista CFA first lieutenant and training officer, Richard O’Brien said the program is aimed at ensuring that every home has a working smoke alarm as part of an ongoing effort to improve fire safety within the community.
“We want to make sure that people are aware of the importance of smoke alarms and that everyone in our community has access to them,” Mr O’Brien said.
Under Victorian building regulations, all residential properties must have at least one working smoke alarm installed on each level. For properties built before 1 August 1997, either battery-powered or hard-wired alarms are required.
For homes built after this date, smoke alarms must be hard-wired to mains power, with a backup battery. Additionally, any properties undergoing major renovations must comply with these smoke alarm requirements.
This initiative specifically focuses on assisting individuals who are elderly, have mobility issues, live with a disability, or experience financial hardship.
The program ensures these individuals are not left without vital protection in case of a fire.
“We’ve already completed two installations in Kallista, and we have more planned in the coming weeks – we’re working hard to reach those who need this support most,” Mr O’Brien said.
The CFA not only provides the installation of smoke alarms but also takes the opportunity to educate homeowners about fire safety practices.
“One important recommendation we make is to have smoke alarms in every bedroom,” he said.
“Many people have alarms outside sleeping areas, but a fire can spread quickly, and having alarms inside sleeping areas provides an extra level of safety.”
Mr O’Brien also highlighted the growing fire risks associated with lithium batteries, which are commonly used in devices like mobile phones.
“There have been increasing cases of fires caused by lithium batteries, especially when they overheat or are left charging unattended,” he said.
“Having smoke alarms in bedrooms can provide early warning if anything goes wrong.”
This ongoing program is available to anyone who may need assistance.
To find out more or to book an installation, residents can contact the CFA District 13 office at 8739 1300 or email d13commed@cfa.vic.gov.au
For those unable to install their own smoke alarms, this free service ensures no one is left unprotected.
CFA volunteers are happy to help with installations, ensuring that all homes in the Kallista area are better equipped for fire safety.
