Timely reminder to Victorians to change smoke alarm batteries

Victorians, especially those aged 65 or older are being urged to put new batteries in their smoke alarms when daylight saving ends on Sunday, 25 March. Country Fire Authority and Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board are reminding all residents to “change your clock, change your smoke alarm battery” to ensure all houses have working smoke alarms.

According to a report by the Australasian Fire Authorities Council in Australia, of the residential fire victims where age was reported, 22% were aged 65 and older.

Australia’s fire services attend on average 212 household fires per week. In Victoria the average is 38 fires, and according to Victoria’s fire services there are many fires that go unreported.

Only 45% of properties attended had smoke alarms, and of those 31% were not functioning. Working smoke alarms provide an early warning signal and are the only way to ensure your family and home are protected.

Visit www.changeyourbattery.com.au for further information on where to place smoke alarms in your home.