Is there a working smoke alarm in your bedroom?
Fires are fast. A small fire can spread to an entire room in minutes.
The majority of fatal house fires start in bedrooms.
Without a smoke alarm a fire is more likely to damage or destroy your property. It is also more likely to cause serious injury or death.
When you are asleep your senses are weakened. A working smoke alarm installed in all bedrooms and living areas will wake you if there is smoke.
Smoke alarm recommendations for your home
Victoria’s fire and rescue services recommend all smoke alarms to be:
- powered by a long-life lithium battery
- installed in all sleeping areas of the home, including bedrooms and living areas
- interconnected, if possible, so that when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound
- installed on the ceiling at least 30cm from the wall
- tested monthly
- cleaned with a vacuum cleaner at least once a year to remove dust particles, and
- replaced every 10 years, regardless of the type of smoke alarm.
Smoke alarms cost from $20
| Cost from: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Good | Smoke alarm that may be hardwired or powered by a 9-volt battery. Cons: Yearly battery replacement costs or the need to be wired. | $20-$30 each |
| Better | Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium battery in a tamperproof chamber. Pros: The battery will not need to be replaced each year and sealed for added security. | $30-$70 each |
| Best | Wireless interconnected smoke alarms with a 10-year lithium battery. Pros: When one smoke alarm activates, all alarms will sound. | $70-$99 each |
For more information about the cost and differences of smoke alarms, and what Victoria’s fire services recommend, download the flyer and watch our video below:
More information about smoke alarms
For more information regarding smoke alarms and smoke alarm maintenance, visit:
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV)
A modern fire and rescue service that meets the needs of Victorians. The new organisation was established on 1 July 2020. We serve and protect communities across Melbourne and Victoria.
Country Fire Authority (CFA)
Victorians committed to protecting lives and property. We respond to a range of hazards, support our communities to be fire ready and we work as one with our emergency service partners.
Fire safety information in languages other than English
Smoke alarm information in other languages
Find important information about smoke alarms in other languages other than English.
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