What to Know About Smoke Alarm Safety

Did you know that smoke alarms are mandatory in rental properties? Read on to learn more about these nifty devices that saves lives.

Dennis Jap
July 6, 2023
4 mins read

Introduction

Smoke alarms are vital safety devices that provide early warning in the event of a fire.

Regularly checking and maintaining smoke alarms is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and protect lives and property.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to conduct a smoke alarm safety check to enhance the fire safety of your home or workplace.

What to Know About Smoke Alarm Safety Check

Here are six important things to understand to conduct a perfect smoke alarm safety check:

Understanding Smoke Alarm Basics: Smoke alarms typically consist of a sensor that detects smoke particles and emits a loud, audible alarm to alert occupants of a potential fire. There are two common types of smoke alarms: ionization smoke alarms, which are more responsive to flaming fires, and photoelectric smoke alarms, which are more sensitive to smoldering fires. Understanding the type and functionality of your smoke alarms is essential for proper maintenance.
Testing Smoke Alarms: Regular testing of smoke alarms is crucial to ensure their proper functioning. Follow these steps to test your smoke alarms:
a. Notify occupants: Inform everyone in the vicinity that you will be conducting a smoke alarm test to avoid unnecessary panic.
b. Press the test button: Most smoke alarms have a test button that, when pressed, initiates a self-test sequence. Press and hold the button until the alarm sounds. If the alarm does not sound, replace the batteries or the entire smoke alarm unit, depending on the type of alarm.
c. Check audibility: Walk around your home or workplace while the alarm is sounding to verify that the alarm’s sound can be heard clearly in all areas. If there are any areas where the alarm is not adequately audible, consider installing additional smoke alarms.
Changing Batteries: Smoke alarms are typically battery-powered, so it is important to replace the batteries regularly. Follow these guidelines:
a. Schedule battery replacements: Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year. Consider using an annual event, such as daylight saving time, as a reminder.
b. Use the right batteries: Ensure that you use the correct type and size of batteries recommended by the smoke alarm manufacturer. Avoid using rechargeable batteries, as their voltage can fluctuate, affecting the alarm’s performance.
c. Test after battery replacement: After inserting new batteries, perform a test as described in Step 2 to ensure that the smoke alarm is functioning correctly.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance help keep smoke alarms in optimal condition. Follow these steps:
a. Power off: Before cleaning the smoke alarm, switch off the power supply to prevent accidental triggering.
b. Gently vacuum or dust: Use a soft brush attachment or a clean, dry cloth to gently remove dust or debris from the smoke alarm’s exterior and vents. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions.
c. Verify functionality: After cleaning, perform a test as described in Step 2 to ensure that the smoke alarm is working correctly.
Upgrading Smoke Alarms: Consider upgrading your smoke alarms if they are older models or do not meet the current safety standards. Newer smoke alarms often come with enhanced features such as interconnected alarms, which trigger all alarms in the network when one detects smoke.
Educating Occupants: In addition to regular maintenance, it is essential to educate all occupants about fire safety procedures, including the importance of responding promptly to smoke alarms, practicing fire drills, and developing evacuation plans.

Conclusion

Regularly checking and maintaining smoke alarms is vital for ensuring the safety of occupants in the event of a fire.

By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can enhance the effectiveness of your smoke alarms and contribute to a safer living or working environment.

Remember to test smoke alarms, replace batteries, perform cleaning and maintenance, consider upgrades when necessary, and educate occupants about fire safety procedures.

What is one thing you should never do to a smoke alarm?

It is illegal to remove or tamper with any components of the smoke alarm. A professional contractor conducts an annual inspection of the smoke alarm, and we will coordinate this service with you. Avoid attempting to open the alarm, as it is wired to the main power supply and poses a risk of electric shock.

How often should smoke alarms be cleaned?

Monthly:
Press and hold the test button on your smoke alarm for at least five seconds until you hear the beeps to check the batteries every month.

Biannually:
Every six months, use a vacuum to remove dust from your smoke alarms. This helps to keep the alarm free of particles, reducing the chances of false alarms and ensuring that smoke can easily reach the internal sensor.

Annually:
Replace lead or alkaline batteries in your smoke alarm every 12 months to ensure consistent performance.

Decennially:
Every 10 years, or earlier if specified by the manufacturer, replace all smoke alarms in your home with new 10-year lithium-powered smoke alarms to maintain optimal safety and functionality.

Do smoke alarms need to be hardwired in Australia?

Starting from 1 January 1995, it has been mandatory for all new homes in South Australia to be equipped with smoke alarms. These alarms are required to be hard-wired to the 240-volt mains power supply, unless the dwelling is not connected to this supply. Additionally, these alarms should have a back-up battery installed to ensure they remain functional in the event of a mains power supply failure.

Is there a risk with smoke detectors?

Ionization smoke detectors pose no health risk when they are used as intended and remain undamaged. Avoid tampering with your smoke detectors, as this could compromise the shielding surrounding the radioactive source (americium) within the device.

What are Victoria's smoke alarm regulations, and what does a single beep from an alarm signify?

In Victoria, residential properties, including houses, units, flats, and townhouses, must have smoke alarms on every level. These alarms must meet the Australian standard AS 3786. For optimal protection, it is recommended to install interconnected smoke alarms in every sleeping area and living room. A 10 year-long-life battery is advised for smoke alarms. If a smoke alarm emits a single, occasional beep, it typically indicates that the battery needs to be replaced, or the smoke alarm may be faulty and require replacement.