Smoke Alarms
Working smoke alarms save lives
CFA recommends the installation of photo-electric smoke alarms in all new residential buildings, and that any replacement of existing ionisation smoke alarms should be with a photo-electric model.
Building regulations state that every home in Victoria must have a smoke alarm complying with Australian Standard AS 3786. Existing homes may install battery-powered smoke alarms,
but all new houses must be fitted with hardwired-in smoke alarms
prior to occupancy.
Make the right choice
Smoke alarms are inexpensive and easy to install. When choosing an alarm for your home, be sure to select one that meets Australian Standard AS 3786.
There are two types of smoke alarms - ionisation alarms that predominantly detect the presence of extremely small particles of smoke, and the newer photo-electric alarms that detect visible smoke.
Research indicates that although both types of alarms give occupants time to escape, photo-electric alarms are consistently more effective at detecting smouldering fires in homes.
- CFA urges all householders to supplement their existing ionisation smoke alarms with photo-electric alarms.
Smoke alarms for the hearing impaired
Special smoke alarms are available for the hearing impaired. These may feature a flashing strobe light, and/or a vibrating pad that can be placed under the pillow to activate when the alarm sounds.
Hearing impaired smoke alarms can link with standard smoke alarms to alert all household members, regardless of hearing levels. When one alarm senses smoke, all will activate.
Other models are portable units that can be taken from one residence to another.
Smoke Alarm Subsidy
Profoundly deaf people can apply for a smoke alarm subsidy to help cover the costs of visual and vibrating smoke alarms.
The subsidy scheme is available until June 2012 and is funded by the State Government. Details and application forms are available through the Victorian Deaf Society.
Australian Standards
There are no Australian Standards for smoke alarms for the blind, deaf and hearing impaired.
CFA recommends people only purchase smoke alarms that quote this Standard: AS3786.
