Practical tips for fireproofing your home

Smoke alarms are your first defence against fires. Homes with working smoke alarms are twice as likely to survive a fire compared to those without. Scotty Cam says they’re an essential part of any home.

“Not only can they prevent fires from causing extensive damage but they also are critical in keeping you and your loved ones safe,” he said. 

However, people often forget about their smoke alarms until they hear the low battery beep.

Australian fire authorities recommend testing smoke alarms once a month. A study in Western Australia found that 75% of households didn't know they should check their alarms monthly. Luckily, it's never too late to start this habit.

Faulty appliances and old wiring are a big risk factor. In New South Wales, 40% of house fires are triggered by electrical problems.

While you should never attempt to do your own electrical work, you can learn to identify the warning signs so you know when to call in a professional. 

You’ll find more tips in our guide to preventing home electrical fires.

Once a fire spreads too much, it can take a lot of water and chemicals to control it. If this happens, always call 000 for help.

But when a fire first starts, you might be able to put it out yourself before it gets too big. Although your first impulse might be to throw a bucket of water onto the flames, in some cases that can make the problem worse.

Electrical fires, for example, should never be fought with water because water conducts electricity.

Instead, buy a fire extinguisher or fire blanket from your local hardware store and keep them near high-risk areas like the kitchen.

Make sure you know how to use them and regularly check that your extinguisher is charged and ready to go.

As well as keeping your smoke alarms in working order, you might consider upgrading them. 

Smart smoke detectors connect to your phone. They can alert you right away if there's trouble, no matter where you are.

There are many smart smoke alarms available, each with different features. Depending on which one you choose, your alarm system might tell you where a fire starts in your home. They may also let you do routine tests through an app on your phone.