Daylight saving has ended across some regions in Australia and now is the perfect time to check your smoke alarm.

Quell, a leading provider of fire and safety equipment reminds families to check their smoke alarms and replace any expired smoke alarms in their homes. Smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old should be replaced.

“The reasons for a smoke alarm not operating may include battery or alarm failure, both of which require attention and maintenance,” says David Laundry, National Consumer Manager, Quell. “It’s a good idea to check your fire alarm on a day such as the daylight saving changeover because it is memorable and can help ensure continued protection year on year.” Even if you don’t have daylight saving in your region, it should still be used as a timely reminder to check.

To know when your smoke alarm was manufactured, look for a batch number, which is typically printed near the battery compartment. A batch number of 2420 indicates that the product was manufactured in the 24th week of 2020. Quell alarms have a date of manufacture printed clearly on the base, while some manufacturers now place the expiry date on the smoke alarm.

“Working smoke alarms are the only smoke alarms that can save lives and property, and it is important they are maintained properly,” said Laundry.

So change your clock, check your alarm for the age and replace batteries where possible.

Why do I need to change my smoke alarm every 10 years?

Did you know that the sensitivity of smoke alarms can decrease over time? In some Australian States it is also a requirement to replace your smoke alarm every 10 years.

An outdated or faulty smoke alarm may just be as dangerous as having no smoke alarm at all. Being unprotected from the possibility of a fire is a risk Quell hopes no family has to face.

To know when your smoke alarm was manufactured, look for a batch number, which is typically printed near the battery compartment. For example, a batch number of 2420 indicates that the product was manufactured in the 24th week of 2020. All Quell alarms have a date of manufacture printed clearly on the base.

Some other handy tips to maintaining your smoke alarm include:

  • Clean and vacuum your smoke alarm at least every 6 months. This will help nuisance alarms caused by dust or other contaminants.
  • Test your alarm after installing new batteries – simply press the test button.
  • Replace your smoke alarm battery at least once a year, typically at daylight saving time.

Smoke Alarm State Legislation

Australian laws requires all residential property owners to install at least one smoke alarm on each floor of the property however the exact requirements vary from state to state.

Not sure what your legal requirements are? Click on the handy links below to check.

Working smoke alarms are the only smoke alarms that can save lives and property, and it is important they are maintained properly. Why not check your smoke alarm today.