Fire service advises people to fit enough smoke alarms

Picture: ROB CURRIE. (32429975)

ISLANDERS are being encouraged to ensure their homes are properly protected by smoke alarms – with the fire service stating that one might not be enough.

Fire officers say most people understand the importance of a working smoke alarm and 90% of homes have at least one. But recent statistics show that smoke alarms alerted householders to a fire in only 43% of cases.

The most common reason a smoke alarm failed to activate was because the fire was outside its range.

The Jersey Fire and Rescue Service is now encouraging Islanders to think about the number and location of smoke alarms in their houses.

Crew commander Simon Le Maistre said: ‘We must make sure that we have enough smoke alarms to cover our whole home.

‘If you don’t have enough, or they’re not in the right place, you might not be alerted in time.

‘You should make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings.

‘Placing smoke detectors near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances could give you the extra warning you need.’

He added: ‘It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the part that detects smoke deteriorates with time.

‘To work their best they should be replaced every ten years.’

He said the ideal locations for them were on the ceiling in the middle of a room, but they should not be placed in or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam could set them off accidentally.

They should be kept clean and, if the alarm sounds, people should check on loved ones who might need help.

– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –