For those people who have survived a house fire, many report their strongest
memory is one of sheer helplessness. Once a fire takes hold there is very little a
householder can do except get out of their home and call the fire brigade. Last
year 680 West Australian homes were damaged by fire and since July 2002 nine
people have died in their homes due to fire. These tragic statistics could be
minimised with the use of a simple device; a smoke alarm.

More and more Western Australians are realising how important the investment
in a smoke alarm can be. Their numbers have swelled 35 percent in the past
three years and now, according to Bill Rose from the Fire and Emergency
Services Authority (FESA), more than two thirds of property owners have
installed smoke alarms.

“We are really pleased that so many more people are taking responsibility by
installing this life saving device,” Ms Rose said.
“This winter though, we would like to see the other 30 per cent of the community
become WinterSafe and install a smoke alarm.”
FESA’s WinterSafe campaign, which started at the beginning of May, aims to
decrease the number and severity of residential property fires in Western
Australia during the winter months.

“A crucial part of this strategy is to encourage more people to properly install
smoke alarms,” he said.
Mr Rose said winter was now upon us and during this time there are more house
fires then at any other time during the year.

“Last year in Western Australia more than 250 fires occurred in winter, compared
to around 200 last summer,” he said.

“We can’t take chances this winter, we need to prepare. A smoke alarm will
detect the presence of smoke and alert occupants before they are overcome by
smoke. If residents aren’t home, neighbours can hear the alarm and notify the
fire service, thus reducing property damage.

“For as little as $10, people can install a smoke alarm and have peace of mind
knowing that they have taken a life-saving precaution against a fire tragedy.”
Mr Rose said smoke alarms need to be installed in the hallway near bedrooms
as well as inside each bedroom if the doors are kept closed.

“It is important not to install them too close to the kitchen or bathrooms as they
will be activated by steam and cooking fumes rather than by smoke,” he said.
“If you live in a two storey residence it is vital that smoke alarms are installed on
both floors.
“Don’t take chances - install a smoke alarm now and become WinterSafe.”
For more information on smoke alarms call your local Fire Service.