As Victorians prepare to adjust their clocks for the end of daylight saving this weekend, RACV and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is reminding residents about the critical importance of smoke alarm maintenance.
RACV head of policy James Williams said an operational smoke alarm can allow us the precious seconds we need to evacuate safely in the event of a fire emergency.
“With an average of 3,000 house fires in Victoria each year, the importance of functional smoke alarms cannot be overstated,” Mr Williams said.
“RACV is urging everyone to take some time this weekend to ensure you have reliable smoke alarms installed at your home.
“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.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it is vital all Victorians have working smoke alarms in their homes to prevent house fires and fatalities.
“The more smoke alarms you have in the home, the more likely you are to wake up and be alerted to a fire. We highly recommend residents install them in all bedrooms, living areas, and hallways for the best protection,” Mr Heffernan said.
RACV reminds tenants that while rental providers are responsible for maintaining smoke alarms, it’s crucial to report any concerns promptly with your property manager.
Smoke alarm essential maintenance includes:
Test your smoke alarms monthly.
Recognise warning signs such as yellowing units or continuous chirping.
Undertake proper installation in every bedroom, living area, and hallway.
Use 10-year lithium battery powered alarms.
Signs your smoke alarms need attention include the following warning signs:
Yellowing of the alarm unit.
Continuous ‘chirping’ sounds.
Unexplained activations.
Last year, RACV and the CFA partnered to provide free smoke alarms and education to more than 750 at-risk individuals across rural and regional Victoria.
This program equips homes with life-saving devices and spreads vital knowledge about fire prevention and safety in the home.
Mr Williams emphasised the program’s urgency, with RACV today announcing an extension of funding to help the CFA reach more homes.
“This program aims to increase the understanding and awareness of residential home fire safety,” Mr Williams said.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said this program has addressed crucial gaps in smoke alarm presence throughout Victorian homes, particularly for vulnerable residents.
“This is an important program to ensure we’re helping our community members keep themselves and their homes safe, especially those more vulnerable such as elderly Victorians,” Mr Heffernan said.
