A household fire can spread and engulf a home in the blink of an eye, destroying property, personal possessions and lives. Smoke alarms help to give early warning to alert occupants, giving them time to take action and evacuate.

An annual nationwide fire safety campaign designed to help promote the importance of working smoke alarms kicks off on April 1.

The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS), together with Duracell, are urging all Territorian residents to use April Fool's Day as a reminder to change their smoke alarm batteries.

Mick Ayre, Assistant Director Development and Strategy, NTFRS says, "Every year the NTFRS is involved with horrific house fires where, sadly, not everyone escapes uninjured. Many of these events could have been prevented if working smoke alarms were present".

"That's why we are encouraging all householders to use April Fools Day as a significant date to remember to change smoke alarm batteries and help ensure their safety and the safety of their family in the event of a fire."

The Fire Service recommends all residents replace their smoke alarm batteries with long lasting alkaline batteries and check the NTFRS website at www.fire.nt.gov for information on correct installation locations and maintenance tips for optimum performance of smoke alarms.

All smoke alarms have a maximum life span of ten years so it is advisable to check the smoke alarm for a service date (which is the date when the alarm itself should be replaced). This date is stamped on the base of each smoke alarm.

Media Contact:
Rickie Scoot
8922 3185