As we spring forward into daylight savings, it’s important for South Aussies to not only adjust their clocks but also check and change their smoke alarm batteries. With the change in time, the South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) is reminding everyone that ensuring your smoke alarms are operational is a vital step in keeping homes safe.
Last financial year, the MFS reported 41 house fires where smoke alarms were either disabled or had flat batteries. Alarmingly, there were also 190 incidents where no smoke alarms were present at all, comprising around 20% of total callouts.
This is a stark reminder that a little bit of prevention goes a long way.
Recent fires that highlight this issue include an incident in Semaphore South in June, where an elderly occupant was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and damage reached $100,000.
In Salisbury Park in August, a resident suffered minor burns after being evacuated by passersby, with damages soaring to $300,000.
Similarly, a fire in Port Pirie South also reported no smoke alarms and caused $150,000 worth of damage. These cases underscore the critical need for working smoke alarms in every home.
Over the past five years, nearly 200 MFS responses have been recorded to house fires where smoke alarms failed to function in South Australia. This highlights just how crucial it is to regularly check and replace your smoke alarm batteries.
In Australia, fire-related deaths often stem from smoke inhalation and toxic gases rather than direct contact with flames, making early detection a life-saving necessity.
To maximize safety, the MFS recommends interconnected photo-electric smoke alarms that are hardwired to the 240-volt power supply, complete with battery backup for added reliability.
For more tips and information on smoke alarms, check out the MFS website.
Minister for Emergency Services, Dan Cregan encourages everyone to act now.
“If you don’t have a working smoke alarm installed, now is the time to act. Taking a moment to check your smoke alarm batteries as you change your clocks this weekend could save your life,” he said.
The MFS also urges residents to check on elderly neighbors or family members who might need assistance with their smoke alarms. A small act of kindness can go a long way in ensuring their safety.
As MFS Acting Chief Officer Eero Haatainen reminds us, “Only working smoke alarms save lives. They provide crucial time for evacuation and to call Triple Zero.”
So, as you adjust your clocks this weekend, make sure to prioritise your safety and the safety of those around you by ensuring your smoke alarms are in top condition.
A reminder by SAMFS to check and change your smoke alarms batteries
When: Daylight savings – October 6th
For more information, click here.
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