Canberrans are being urged to stay safe this winter and ensure their home has a working smoke alarm.
Commissioner of the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ACT ESA) Georgeina Whelan said smoke alarms could mean the difference between life and death.
“As the temperatures start to drop in our region, Canberrans will start using heaters and electric blankets which increases the fire risk in our homes – having a working fire alarm is critical to keeping your loved ones and your homes safe,” Commissioner Whelan said.
“Smoke alarms work by alerting residents to the presence of smoke, and are particularly important overnight when residents are asleep and at greater risk of harm if not woken by an alarm,” she said.
Acting Chief Officer of ACT Fire and Rescue, Glenn Brewer urged people not to be complacent about fire safety this winter.
“Having a working smoke alarm provides a critical early warning, giving you and your family time to escape safely and increasing the chance of saving your home,” A/g Chief Officer Brewer said.
“Over the past three years, ACT Fire & Rescue has attended 123 house fires where a working smoke alarm wasn’t present,” he said.
“Now is the time for residents to make sure they have alarms installed, and that they are maintained on a regular basis to ensure optimal safety.”
A/g Chief Officer Brewer said residents should test batteries monthly; vacuum and dust smoke alarms every six months; and replace alarm batteries every 12 months.
He also encouraged Canberrans to prepare a home fire escape plan.
Information on how to prepare a home fire escape plan can be accessed on ACT ESA’s website at this PS News link.
