CFA to install smoke alarms for at risk residents

THE CFA has announced the Smoke Alarm Installation program for rural and regional Victoria, providing at risk residents with free smoke alarms.

The program also aims to increase understanding and awareness of home fire hazards and reduce the number of preventable fire fatalities.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it’s vital everyone has a working smoke alarm in their homes to prevent fire fatalities.

“We’ve seen the devastating results of house fires where there wasn’t a working smoke alarm,” Mr Heffernan said.

“This is an important program to ensure we’re helping our communities, especially those more vulnerable such as elderly Victorians.”

Smoke alarms play a critical role in early fire detection and evacuation, but many homes either do not have enough smoke alarms or have them installed in the wrong areas.

According to the CFA, fatal house fires often start in bedrooms, underlining the importance of comprehensive smoke alarm coverage.

Community Safety Coordinator at Heathcote CFA, Evan Pritchard, is urging everyone eligible to contact Heathcote CFA.

“The program… is aimed at assisting people who cannot obtain, purchase, install or maintain smoke alarms themselves,” he said.

“Local brigade members with the appropriate training are available to assist eligible residents with installation of new smoke alarms free of charge.”

Register at [email protected] or call 0499 416 941.