Short Description
The fitting of smoke detectors is mandatory in all new houses and in major additions and refurbishments. Fire blankets and fire extinguishers can sometimes provide the means to control small localised fires at an early stage.
More Details
POINTS TO CONSIDER:
. The first priority for a person with a mobility disability is to evacuate
the dwelling and call the Fire Brigade.
. Locate a person with limited mobility in a bedroom near an exit.
. Smoke detectors and alarms are installed on the ceiling and emit a
high-pitched alarm when activated by smoke. They may be battery-powered or connected to the 240 volt power supply and have battery backup in case of power failure. If alarm is set off by `false alarm' the unit can be reset by pushing a button on the unit (eg with broom handle) or by waving smoke away (eg with a towel) then unit will reset itself. They should be located in bedrooms, living areas and in hallways between these areas not in the kitchen.
. A person with severe hearing loss may require a strong strobe light to alert them to the alarm situation see separate information.
. Battery replacement may be difficult for the older person and people with disabilities some smoke detectors such as Quell SA900 have a lithium battery with a ten year life span.
. Most models feature a power on indicator.
. Some models include an escape light with independent power for use in hallways, stairways and at exits to assist evacuation in a power failure.
. Fire blankets are made of woven glass fibre which does not burn, melt or give off smoke. They are available in three sizes and are designed to smother small fires such as on the stove and to wrap around a person whose clothing is on fire.
. In the kitchen a regular size blanket of maximum of 1m x 1m is recommended for stovetop flames. Larger blankets may pull pots off stove causing scalding. It should be located away from the stove or cooktop where the user will not risk being burnt when reaching for it. For a wheelchair user the pull-down tabs should be 900-1100 mm above the floor.
. Fire extinguishers are available in small models - 0.9 kg to 1.25kg and should conform to AS 1846. Multi-purpose models are designed for general household use for fires of wood, paper, plastic, fabric, grease, oil and electrical.
. A safety pin must be pulled out before operation of the unit.
. Most models have a trigger-action lever located above the gripping handle. Discharge shuts off when grip is released.
For further advice contact the NSW Fire Brigades Fire Safety Division
Phone (02) 9742 7400