Firefighters are urging Victorians to check that their smoke alarms are in working order when daylight saving ends at 2am this Sunday.
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) are concerned some households may be equipped with smoke alarms that aren't in working order, putting the occupants at risk in the event of a fire. The end of daylight savings is a great reminder to check the battery and check if the unit is more than 10 years old.
CFA Acting Chief Officer Gavin Freeman said the fire and rescue services have been telling Victorians to check their smoke alarms and change the batteries since 1997.
"This year, we also urge you to check the location of your smoke alarms," he said.
"Most fatal fires start in lounge rooms and bedrooms. Unfortunately, some of these tragedies may have been able to be prevented by having working smoke alarms in the right places.
"We recommend smoke alarms be fitted in all sleeping and living areas. This is your best chance of an early notification and escape, regardless of where a fire starts."
"It's also a good idea to install interconnected smoke alarms, so that when any smoke alarm is activated by smoke, all alarms are triggered."
"If your smoke alarms aren't working properly, you may miss a vital early warning sign that could save the lives of you and your family."
Smoke alarms are compulsory in all Victorian homes. Residential tenants are responsible for regularly cleaning and testing smoke alarms in their homes and to report any faults to the landlord or agent.
