Queenslanders are urged to be smart about their safety this April Fool’s Day and change their home’s smoke alarm batteries.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Deputy Commissioner Mark Roche said it was important that residents took the time to ensure their smoke alarms were working. “It only takes a few minutes to change your smoke alarm batteries and test the alarms, but it could save your life,†Mr Roche said.
“Working smoke alarms let you know if there is a fire and maximise your chance of getting out of your home in time. They also help to minimise
damage to your property by giving you an early warning so that you can call Triple Zero (000).†Mr Roche said research had shown working smoke alarms more than halved the risk of death in a house fire.
“The danger presented by fire is real. In the past 12 months, QFES attended more than 1,900 residential fires across the state,†he said.
“Tragically, during that time, 18 people died in residential fires in Queensland.â€
Mr Roche said along with working smoke alarms, it was essential for Queenslanders to have a home fire escape plan. “You may only have a few minutes from when you hear your smoke alarm to when your life is in danger from fire or smoke,†he said. “That’s why it’s so important for all members of your household to prepare and practise an escape plan.â€
QFES recommends the use of photoelectric smoke alarms. “Photoelectric alarms are more effective at detecting a wider range of fires,†Mr Roche said. “If your alarms are powered by nine volt batteries, you need to put in a new battery every year. If you have hard-wired alarms, check your back-up batteries are working in case there’s a power outage.”
“The message is clear. Don’t be a fool this April 1st. Check your smoke alarms today.â€
To find out more about smoke alarms and home fire escape plans, visit https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/communitysafety/ and https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/fireescape/
