Get up to speed – Photoelectric smoke alarms

In a house fire seconds can make all the difference between escape and tragedy. Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms give you the best chance to get out before smoke and toxic fumes overcome you.

Photoelectric smoke alarms respond to a wide range of fires but are particularly responsive to smouldering fires and dense smoke, the most common type of household fire. They are also less likely to cause nuisance alarms as a result of cooking or steam. Having interconnected alarms means when one alarm is activated, all alarms will sound.

As part of Queensland legislation introduced on 1 January 2017, all Queensland homes must install interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms by 2027.

The legislation requires all homes to have interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, in hallways and on every level. Smoke alarms must be hard-wired or powered by a non-removable 10-year battery.

The legislation comes into effect in three stages over 10 years to allow enough time for all households to have their smoke alarms installed correctly. New builds and existing homes undergoing major renovations need to comply from January 2017, while those who own rental accommodation have until 2022. All other households have until 2027 to install interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms. While some households have up to 10 years before they need to comply with the legislation, every Queensland home should make these changes as soon as practical.

When seconds can make all the difference during a house fire, give yourself more time.

Get up to speed at www.qld.gov.au/smokealarms