Top 5 Reasons Fires Occur in Homes

Fires can happen all year round and not just when we are more vigilant in the summer. For Australian’s, the importance of having functional smoke alarms in homes cannot be overstated. These devices are often the first line of defence against potentially devastating fires. However, many homes still experience fires due to smoke alarms that do not work.

Here are the top five reasons why this happens and how you can prevent these situations.

1-Dead or Missing Batteries

One of the most common reasons a smoke alarm fails is due to dead or missing batteries. Many homeowners neglect to check their smoke alarms regularly, leading to a situation where the alarm is simply not operational when it’s needed most. We suggest changing the battery when daylight savings starts and ends each year. Check your batteries today.

2-Old or Expired Smoke Alarms

You may not know but a smoke alarm has a lifespan of 10 years only. After this period, their sensors can become less effective, and they may not respond to smoke not allowing you the time to escape safely. Many people are unaware of a smoke alarms lifespan which means they are relying on outdated alarms to alert them of a fire. To avoid this risk of using an outdated alarm, check the manufacture date on your smoke alarms and replace them every 10 years.

3-Poor Installation

The effectiveness of a smoke alarm is heavily influenced by its installation location. If smoke alarms are placed too close to kitchens or bathrooms, they may be prone to false alarms, leading homeowners to disable them. Conversely, if they are installed in areas where smoke may not reach them quickly, they may not activate in time. To ensure optimal performance, install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for placement to maximize their effectiveness.

4-Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Many homeowners forget that smoke alarms require regular maintenance to function properly. This includes testing the alarms monthly, cleaning them to remove dust and debris, and ensuring that they are free from obstructions. Neglecting these tasks can lead to alarms that fail to sound when smoke is detected. Make it a habit to check your smoke alarms during home maintenance tasks, such as changing air filters or checking your heating system.

5-Finally, a False Sense of Security

Having smoke alarms installed can create a false sense of security for many homeowners. They may believe that simply having the devices in place is enough to ensure safety, leading to complacency regarding maintenance and checks. It’s crucial to remember that smoke alarms are only effective if they are functional. 

Stay safe and remember: a few simple steps can save lives!

Thinking of upgrading your smoke alarm check out our range – https://www.family-first.com.au/category/smoke-alarms/