Plan to survive with smoke alarms

“Prevention is the best defence against house fires – and smoke alarms are vital.” This was the key message of guest speaker Peter, from the Queensland Fire Department, during our Fire and Smoke Alarm Safety session at Amici House on 6 August 2026.

Peter’s presentation was packed full of tips to raise awareness to act now to protect yourself, your family and your home.

ESCAPING FIRES

During the engaging session, Peter explained how smoke alarms laws are changing to protect more lives.

“Smoke alarms are vital to preventing fires because they alert you early so you can escape,” Peter said.

“From 1 January 2027, all smoke alarms must be both photoelectric and interconnected.

“This means in the event of a fire, when one smoke alarm goes off, they will all go off, giving you the best chance to escape.”

SMART HABITS

Peter also reminded everyone of smart habits to stay safe, during our second fire safety presentation in our Community Education program this year.

“Keeping your home safe from fire starts with a few smart habits,” Peter said.

“Of those, never leaving a flame unattended is of utmost importance.”

Peter also explained how keeping fire safety products, like fire blankets and extinguishers handy, and learning how to use them, can save lives.

“It’s also important to prepare a home escape plan and identify accessible doors and windows to exit from, that in an emergency would not be blocked or locked,” he said.

SMOKE ALARMS

“The countdown has already begun to 2027, when having the right smoke alarms will ensure compliance with the new laws,” Peter said.

Photoelectric smoke alarms detect smoke particles using a beam of light.

This makes them more responsive to smouldering fires – a common way that house fires start.

If your smoke alarms have ionisation sensors they will need to be replaced.

To check whether your smoke alarm is compliant look for the Australian Standard Code, AS3786-2014.

Remember, in the event of a fire, always call Triple Zero (000) immediately and leave the premises.

Useful Resources:

• Queensland Fire Department. Plan to survive – get compliant smoke alarms today
  https://www.fire.qld.gov.au/prepare/fire/smoke-alarms