Daylight saving has begun – have you tested your smoke alarms?

Daylight saving started on Sunday 27 September. The change of season is a handy reminder to check the smoke alarms throughout your home.

Press the test button on each alarm to make sure it sounds. If you cannot reach it easily, you can use a broom handle. Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommends testing smoke alarms every month, so this is a good time to get into the habit.

It is also worth checking where your alarms are installed. Fire and Emergency recommends long-life photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway, and replacing smoke alarms after 10 years.

For new homes and significant renovations, the current Building Code provisions call for interconnected smoke alarms. When one alarm detects smoke, the connected alarms sound too, helping alert people elsewhere in the home. Existing homes can also benefit from an interconnected system, and wireless options may make an upgrade straightforward.

If you are unsure whether your alarms are in the right places, or you would like to discuss interconnected alarms, AB Electrical is happy to provide free, no-obligation advice and a quote.

Call 0800 688 244 or email office@abelectrical.co.nz.