Smoke alarms are your best defence against house fires. This is why it's important to install reliable smoke alarms. The earlier you're alerted to a fire, the better your chances of getting out safely.
Make sure you install your smoke alarms in effective areas. These include:
- Outside bedrooms
- On ceilings
- High on walls
- Top of open stairways
- Bottom of enclosed stairs
- Near (but not in) the kitchen
Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years.
Your local fire service may offer a free home safety visit. They will inspect your home to help you identify any potential fire risks and show you what to do to reduce or prevent them. They can also help you to develop an escape plan for your property, and they will install a smoke alarm (for free) if you need one.
Contact your local fire authority to find out if this is available in your area.
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