Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters from Springwood fire station have urged residents to replace their smoke alarms on the tenth anniversary of the introduction of smoke alarm legislation in NSW.
Station commander Kevin O’Reilly said smoke alarms needed to be replaced at least every decade and May was the perfect time to do it.
Sunday, May 1 marks 10 years since smoke alarm legislation was introduced in this state,” Mr O’Reilly said.
”Due to dust, humidity and age, smoke alarms need to be replaced at least every 10 years so there could be millions of smoke alarms out there that need to go.
“Throughout May, we’re encouraging local residents to ReAlarm their homes against fire with newer photoelectric smoke alarms that have 10-year lithium batteries. They have fewer false activations and are more effective at detecting the types of fires that are most likely to result in a home fire death - smouldering fires.”
In NSW, all dwellings where people sleep must have at least one working smoke alarm per level. FRNSW recommends having smoke alarms installed in all bedrooms for maximum protection. Smoke alarms are also mandatory for all caravans, campervans, and other moveable dwellings where people sleep – even if the vehicle is kept off the road.
“A fire can take hold in just three minutes, filling your home with deadly smoke. A working smoke alarm gives you vital seconds to get out before you’re overcome.
If you need help checking or replacing the battery in your smoke alarm, contact your local fire station and ask about the Smoke Alarm and Battery Replacement (SABRE) program for seniors and people with disabilities. Contact Springwood station on 47512740
