Households are also being asked to take a step further this year and consider if alarms are placed in locations that provide enough warning if a fire starts while someone is asleep.
CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook said Victorians should not assume one smoke alarm was enough.
“If a fire starts while you are asleep, every second counts,” he said.
“Smoke alarms should be installed in bedrooms, living areas and hallways.
“Interconnected smoke alarms provide the best protection because when one alarm activates, all smoke alarms in the home sound.”
Every home must have working smoke alarms that are tested regularly and replaced if they are more than 10 years old.
Installing fire alarms inside bedrooms and living areas is recommended to ensure that sleeping people can be woken.
CFA and FRV are urging Victorians to:
• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway
• Interconnect smoke alarms where possible
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years
• Keep clothing, bedding and curtains at least one metre from heaters
• Never leave candles, cooking or heaters unattended
• Make and practise a home fire escape plan
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