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Smoke alarms have a shelf life of around ten
years, after this time Wormald recommends you
replace the alarm.
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Batteries should
be changed each year to ensure that the smoke
alarm is working. A good way of making this a
habit is to change the smoke alarm batteries
when clocks are changed for daylight saving.
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Always replace
the batteries in the smoke alarm as soon as the
alarm warns that the batteries are low. Avoid
the tendency to take the batteries out and have
a smoke alarm that is not in use, this decision
could be deadly.
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Homeowners
should test their alarm once a month by
operating the test button and vacuum or use a
soft brush to clear the grill on the smoke alarm
every month or so to make sure it is dust free.
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Smoke alarms
should be fitted outside each sleeping area and
in each bedroom if the occupants smoke in the
bedroom, have heaters or electrical appliances
in their bedroom or if their door is shut
preventing them from hearing the alarm outside
their door.
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Smoke alarms
should be positioned as per the manufacturers
instructions, at least one metre away from air
conditioners and fluorescent light fixtures.
Care should be taken to avoid "dead air" spaces
such as A frame ceilings or at the corners of a
room.
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Many people buy
smoke alarms with the best of intentions and are
not aware that they need to maintain the alarm
to get the best from it, which ultimately puts
lives and property at risk.
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Smoke and fire
are killers that often strike while people are
asleep. A well maintained smoke alarm is the
surest way to protect your home and family.
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