WARNING: 10 Common Mistakes That Could Leave Queenslander's Homes in Flames! Are You Guilty of These Smoke Alarm Sins?
In Queensland, as in any part of the world, looking after your smoke alarm is of paramount importance. Smoke alarms serve as a critical line of defense against the devastating consequences of fires, which can result in personal injury, property damage and even loss of life. Queensland, with its unique climate and Queenslander style homes, is no exception. Regular maintenance and testing of smoke alarms ensure they remain in optimal working condition. It's not just a matter of compliance with local QLD smoke alarm laws; it's about safeguarding the lives of your loved ones and neighbours. Neglecting to care for your smoke alarms can have dire consequences, and it is everyone's responsibility to prioritize fire safety by keeping these devices in tip top shape.
Here is a list of 10 things you should NEVER do to your photoelectric smoke alarms.
1. Do not disable it: Never intentionally disable your household smoke alarm, even temporarily, as it compromises your safety. A disabled smoke alarm was a contributing factor to multiple fatalities occurring in a Logan house fire in 2011.
2. Avoid covering it: Don't obstruct the smoke alarm with objects like curtains, decorations, or tape, as this can hinder its ability to detect smoke.
3. Don't paint over it: Avoid painting your smoke alarm, as the paint can block the vents and sensors, rendering it ineffective. If your smoke alarm is Australian Standard compliant it should have the words 'DO NOT PAINT' at least 3mm high on it.
4. Don't remove the batteries: If your smoke alarm is powered by a replaceable battery, never remove the batteries without replacing them immediately.
5. Don't ignore low-battery warnings: When your smoke alarm emits a low-battery warning signal, do not ignore it. Replace the batteries promptly.
6. Avoid placing it in unsuitable locations: Don't install smoke alarms in areas where they could be exposed to excessive moisture, extreme temperatures, dust or insects, as these conditions can affect their functionality or trigger nuisance false alarms.
7. Don't use it as a cooking alarm: Refrain from using your smoke alarm as a cooking timer. Cooking fumes can trigger false alarms, leading to unnecessary panic and disconnection of the alarm.
8. Avoid neglecting maintenance: Regularly clean and test your smoke alarm as per the manufacturer's instructions. Neglecting maintenance can reduce its reliability and the life of your photoelectric smoke alarm.
9. Don't ignore malfunctioning alarms: If your smoke alarm starts beeping or malfunctioning, do not ignore it. Investigate the issue immediately and either fix or replace the alarm.
10. Don't forget to have enough alarms: Avoid having too few smoke alarms in your home. Install one in every bedroom, in hallways, and on each level of your house to ensure comprehensive coverage as per QLD smoke alarm legislation.
Remember that smoke alarms are crucial for your safety, and proper maintenance and usage are essential to ensure they work effectively in the event of a fire.
We love talking smoke alarms! Feel free to call us with any questions 0478 596 402
Photoelectric Smoke Alarms Australia
Comments
Post a Comment