Throughout April, the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service are reminding all Territorians of the need to change their smoke alarm batteries.
It only takes 2-3 minutes for a small fire to take over an entire room, so a working photoelectric smoke alarm, combined with a well-rehearsed exit plan, could make all the difference in ensuring a safe and successful emergency exit.
Working photoelectric smoke alarms must be installed in every home or residential dwelling. Residential dwellings include movable dwellings such as caravans, and temporary accommodation including safari-style tents.
Only working photoelectric smoke alarms help save lives.
Don’t be a fool this April fool’s day – change your battery!
Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service Community Recommendations:
- Test your photoelectric smoke alarm (by pressing the ‘test’ button) once per month to ensure the battery and the alarm sounder are operating
- Clean with a vacuum cleaner annually to remove particles that can affect smoke alarm performance
- Replace the battery in the photoelectric smoke alarm annually
- Don’t install photoelectric smoke alarms in positions that will cause frequent false alarms, like kitchens. Instead, position them in areas that will wake all occupants in the home and give them time to evacuate and ensure you use an approved photoelectric type smoke alarm
- Develop a home escape plan with your family and practise it regularly
For more information on the recommendations for smoke alarm requirements and fire escape plans, visit www.fire.nt.gov.au or phone 08 8999 FIRE (3473).
