Smoke alarms can save a life, but they have to be properly installed and maintained. Don’t risk your family’s safety—use these tips to keep your smoke detector alarm in tip-top shape.
Check batteries: Dead batteries are a major factor in smoke alarm failures. A smoke detector won’t do you any good if it isn’t working, so make sure to check your batteries every month and use the “test“ button intermittently to ensure proper function.
Arm every level: Only New South Wales and Queensland legally require homes to have smoke detectors on every level, but it's a smart idea for all Australians. You could go one further and place an alarm in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and in your garage. On floors without bedrooms, install alarms in the living area or near stairways.
If you have a large home, consider adding even more to cover the whole footprint.
Mount high: Smoke rises. It’s important to put your smoke detectors within a foot of your ceilings and 10 feet from cooking areas.
For vaulted ceilings, avoid putting smoke detectors in the “pitch” of the roofline. Instead, mount fire alarms about one metre below the ceiling so they can accurately read smoke.
Never run out of batteries: Keep several spare batteries in storage at all times, and replenish often. That way, you’ll always be ready to replace a dead battery in your smoke alarm. It's not a bad idea to set a recurring reminder on your phone to check the batteries each month.
Keep it clean: Dirt and debris interfere with the sensors on your smoke alarm. Dusty buildup can lead to false alarms or delayed detection during an emergency. Whether you have a photoelectric alarm or an ionisation detector, regular cleaning will keep your smoke alarm in working order.
Dodge drafts: Keep smoke alarms away from windows, doors, and air ducts. Drafts can disrupt the operation of smoke detectors and increase the occurrence of nuisance alarms.
Get connected: Wired and wireless interconnected smoke alarms help ensure everyone in your home knows about the emergency. You can install the connection easily and it will sound the siren throughout the house using each of your fire alarms. It takes a few extra steps to set up and test, but it means family members in every room will get the warning.