Change your clock, check your smoke alarm, says RACV

With an alarming 3,000 house fires occurring in Victoria annually – that's almost ten house fires every single day – RACV is encouraging Victorians to check their smoke alarms as you change your clocks this weekend.

The reminder comes as fire authorities report that 60 per cent of house fire fatalities occur in homes without working smoke alarms, with victims often succumbing to smoke inhalation while sleeping, never getting the chance to escape.

"We're not just talking about property damage – we're talking about preventable deaths," said RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside Bill Bloodworth.

"Many Victorian families are going to sleep every night without properly functioning smoke alarms."

How quickly can house fires spread?

Fire safety experts reveal that house fires can become lethal within just three minutes, leaving families with a window of mere seconds to evacuate safely.

"Without a working smoke alarm, you may not wake up in time to escape safely. We're seeing too many preventable tragedies where families had no early warning system," said Mr Bloodworth.

"The difference between life and death often comes down to those crucial first 30 seconds when a smoke alarm activates. That's all the time you may have to get your family out alive."

How often should you check your smoke alarm?

As clocks spring forward this Sunday, RACV is urging all Victorians to use the time change as their annual reminder to conduct a comprehensive smoke alarm safety check.

“This weekend, give your family the gift of protection. Test every alarm, replace old batteries, and don't gamble with your family's safety," Mr Bloodworth said.

Fire safety experts recommend:

• Monthly testing of all smoke alarms – set a recurring phone reminder
• Installing interconnected alarms powered by 10-year lithium batteries
• Placing alarms in every bedroom, living area, hallway, and entertainment space
• Immediate replacement of any alarm showing signs it may not be working properly

How do you know if your smoke alarm isn’t working and needs to be changed?

• Yellowing or discoloration of the alarm unit
• Intermittent 'chirping' or beeping sounds
• False alarms or unexplained activations
• Alarms older than 10 years

For professional smoke alarm installation and safety assessments, visit racv.com/trades or contact local fire authorities for comprehensive fire safety information.