How important are smoke alarms? The Metropolitan Fire Service answers this question with a simple statement: “A clean, working smoke alarm is the difference between life and death.”

When was the last time you checked your smoke alarm? Does it meet current legal standards? Has it passed the use-by date?

Many people don’t understand the importance of a smoke alarm. It gives occupants vital time to escape a house filling with the smoke of a fire.

Most fire-related deaths result from inhaling toxic fire gases rather than contact with flame or radiant heat. Smoke makes breathing difficult while reduced vision can quickly disorientate, leading to confused and deadly actions in an attempt to survive.

The MFS says photo-electric smoke alarms hard-wired to the 240-volt power supply and interconnected give the earliest warning possible.

Smoke alarms are like a car tyre; they have a lifespan. If yours aren’t up to standard you will also be risking your home insurance.

By law, all South Australian homes must be fitted with a working smoke alarm. Homeowners and residential landlords risk fines of up to $750 apply if alarms are not installed.

The minimum requirement for residential properties bought before February 1, 1998, is a replaceable battery-powered smoke alarm.

Those bought after that date are required to have either a 240-volt, mains-powered smoke alarm or a 10-year-life, permanently-connected, battery-powered unit.

The key point here is the 10-year lifespan. Does yours comply?

Properties built on or after January 1, 1995, must have a 240-volt, mains-powered smoke alarm while new buildings and extensions are now required to have interconnected alarms.

These alarms must only be fitted by licensed electricians.

Sharpe Services are experts on fire safety. Sharpe staff are COVID-19 Aware, and are Responsible, Sanitised and Up to Date – Adopting Best Practice.

Their professionals are ready to help and will be there within the hour. Use Easy Book online or call Sharpe Services on 08 7160 3674.