Smoke Alarms Now Mandatory For Many
Oct 22, 2009
20 October 2009
MEDIA RELEASE
Smoke Alarms Now Mandatory For Many
In August 2009, Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) stated that an average of five people die in property fires W.A. every year.*
It is now law (as of October 1st 2009) that homeowners install mains powered smoke alarms before they sell a home, and prior to signing any new tenancy agreements for investment properties. Hefty fines now apply in the instance that proper alarms are not in place.
Director of The Smoke Alarm Company in Western Australia, Mick Gibson said, “The new laws are a really positive step forward to lowering the death toll from house fires in W.A. Until recently, only new homes had to have smoke alarms, and you didn’t need to install hard wired alarms.”
“Now everyone has a duty of care to ensure they have the right alarms installed, and whether that’s a mains powered alarm or an alarm with a 10 year battery. We understand the new legislation, and will help homeowners, property investors, real estate agents, property managers and the commercial sector to come up to speed”, Mick said.
Only a working alarm can save lives, and therefore The Smoke Alarm Company has specially designed an after care program for all alarms, which will see alarms checked annually by a qualified professional.
More information on The Smoke Alarm Company is available from www.smokealarmco.com.au
* FESA source information - http://www.fesa.wa.gov.au/internet/upload/1141803239/docs/Mains_powered_smoke_alarm_legislation_040809.pdf
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