Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarm: everything you need to know

Did you know that a working smoke alarm more than halves the risk of dying in a house fire?
And in NSW each year, 40% of fires are caused by electrical faults and electrical appliances - meaning almost 2000 house fires each year could have been prevented by a simple wiring check in the hands of a licensed electrician.

There are some misconceptions around the importance of protection from fires today. Why is it still important to be protected against fires, despite them being less prevalent? Because experts say that about 90% of fire-related deaths in Australia are preventable. Forty years ago, it would take thirty minutes for a home to be completely ignited after a fire started. But today, it only takes two-three minutes for a space to be completely engulfed in flames. So our window to get to safety is much, much, smaller.

And if you disagree with any of the above, it doesn’t matter. The law is very clear about smoke alarm requirements in NSW, and the Sutherland shire region. A functional smoke alarm is essential for the modern Australian home, business or any building - both from a safety, and compliance perspective. The team at CGF Security is here to help make sure all smoke alarm systems are ticking all the boxes, and fully operational. It’s the best way to protect your clients from fires, fines and legal problems - by always keeping up to date with smoke alarm compliance.

What is a smoke alarm?

Any way you slice it, it’s one of the best innovations ever. Smoke alarms are life-saving devices that detect smoke well before any sleeping person in the home would. They also provide critical time to take the actions that would save life, and property. A smoke alarm, or smoke detector, is designed to sense smoke, which can indicate a fire.

Because they more than halve the risk of dying, a functional smoke alarm is the best way to protect against the threat of a fire.

What are my regulatory obligations in NSW and the Sutherland shire region?

At least one working smoke alarm must be installed on each level, in all buildings in NSW where people sleep.
Most smoke alarm batteries also need to be replaced every twelve months. These provisions came into effect on 1 May 2006.
A person who does not comply with the legislation can be fined up to $550. Does your client, or your building, need a smoke alarm installed, or a battery replaced?

Benefits of smoke alarms

Save lives: They’re your best protection against a modern fire, with a functional smoke alarm more than halving the risk of dying.
Meet legal obligations: In NSW, you can be fined up to $550 if smoke alarm compliance isn’t met - including a yearly battery update.
Peace of mind: Sleep easy with a functional smoke alarm.
Protect people and property: It’s the best possible protection against the event of a possible fire.

How to change a smoke alarm battery

It can either be done by a professional, or it can be a DIY job.
First, the cover of the detector needs to be removed. Then the old battery needs to be taken out and a new one placed inside. The negative and positive connections must match the labels in the smoke detector.

If you’re running a building or a large-scale operation, you want the professionals to inspect the entire premises. This is typically done systematically to minimise inconvenience and cost.
If you’re unsure, just give us a call.

How to stop a smoke alarm from beeping

If there’s no fire, the beeping usually occurs because the battery’s low.

Often, simply pressing the “Test/Silence” button on the front of the unit will stop it from
beeping or chirping.
If this doesn’t work, it can be turned counterclockwise.
Otherwise, flipping the switch off and on again at the circuit box might reset the smoke
alarm.

Ofcourse, the battery or alarm might need to be replaced.
If unsure, always call a professional.

Do you stock UNV, Bosch, Hikvision, Dahua, and Hills branded products for your security systems?

Yes, we stock all of the above – at CGF, we only work with the best quality and safest electrical security products.

Smoke alarm installation or battery replacement in Sutherland and surrounding areas

Smoke alarm systems should always be installed by a leading and experienced service provider. We also recommend having them monitored each year, and the battery replaced, by a professional who knows what they’re doing.

Especially when there’s a building or larger area with multiple alarms. One shouldn’t take chances with security - the installation work should be done by a master security technician - the installer shouldn’t be an apprentice, cheap labour, or uncle Joe.

They should be fully licensed, qualified and insured. At CGF, we’ve got you covered - whether you’re a home owner, a business owner, or you’re in charge of a building, we’ve been there and done that. Get it done once, and get it done right.