Fire and Rescue NSW are recommending Dubbo residents put smoke alarms in every bedroom and living area in their house in a bid to reduce house fire deaths.
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A report based on research by Fire and Rescue and the CSIRO into the effectiveness of smoke alarms showed stronger measures were needed to give resident time to escape
While just 16 per cent of all fires occurred in the home, those incidents accounted for 95 per cent of all fire-related deaths.
The research found that death toll could be reduced by up to 50 per cent if a working smoke alarm was installed.
FRNSW Commissioner and president of Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council Paul Baxter said there was a need for greater protection.
“On average, there are approximately 21 deaths reported each year as a direct result of residential fires across NSW,” he said.
“Up to a half of those fatalities could have been prevented if these homes had working smoke alarms as well as a home fire escape plan.”
Commissioner Baxter urged residents to install smoke alarms in all bedrooms and living areas, including hallways and stairs, and keep them maintained. Where possible, alarms should be connected, he said.
“The number, location and interconnection of working smoke alarms is more important than the type or technology used,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“The interconnection of multiple alarms ensures that if one alarm detects smoke, all other alarms will activate to sound a warning.”
The report also looked at the effectiveness of sprinklers in residential buildings of 25 metres high and based on those findings, will recommend that a change be made to the 2019 National Construction Code so that sprinkler systems are mandated for all apartments, units, boarding houses, guest houses and other shared residential accommodation buildings up to 25 metres.
FRNSW encouraged homeowners to practice fire safety and prevention in their homes to protect them and their loved ones.
