Smoke alarms save lives

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is attributing a lower death toll in house fires to the increased use of smoke alarms across the State under laws introduced last year.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said QFRS had recorded nine fatalities in house fires last financial year (2007-08), compared to 14 in 2006-07.

“I welcome any reduction in these tragic statistics, but any loss of life is too great,” Mr Roberts said.

“Today marks the first anniversary of laws being introduced in Queensland making the smoke alarms compulsory.”

Mr Roberts said the number of Queensland households with smoke alarms present has risen by almost 10% over the last 12 months.

“Research shows that before the legislation was introduced approximately 87% of Queensland dwellings had at least one smoke alarm installed,” Mr Roberts said.

“A study has shown that since the legislation was introduced, 96% of households now have at least one smoke alarm.”

QFRS Commissioner Lee Johnson said while the statistics were encouraging, the 3.9% of households without smoke alarms need to take into account the dangers of not having them.

“The risk of death from fire in a home is up to three times higher in homes without smoke alarms,” Mr Johnson said.

“A large number of house fires occur while residents are asleep and the smoke actually lulls people into a deeper sleep. In this circumstance a smoke alarm is the most effective way of alerting you to the fire and giving you time to get out.”

“For as little as $15 people can protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Mr Roberts said he continued to urge Queenslanders to ensure their smoke alarm was fitted properly, the battery changed at least once a year and it was regularly checked.

1 July 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350