Fire Service urge homeowners: Replace smoke alarms every 10 years

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has issued a crucial reminder to homeowners to replace their smoke alarms every 10 years, regardless of their power source.

It is a common misconception that mains-wired smoke alarms don’t need to be replaced every 10 years. However, the fire service emphasises that all smoke alarms, whether mains-wired or battery operated, must be replaced every 10 years.

Claire Monk, Live Safe Manager said: “Smoke alarms are the best protection you can have in your home to keep you safe from fire, but it’s important to understand that they have a finite lifespan.”

All smoke alarms, no matter how they are powered, have sensors that deteriorate over time, rendering them less effective in detecting fires. Essex residents are urged to proactively check the expiration date of their smoke alarms to mitigate potential risks.

Claire added: “A smoke alarm provides vital early warning of a fire giving you time to get yourself and your family out safely. But only if they are working correctly. All smoke alarms should be regularly tested and replaced when reached their expiry date."

Home owners of properties built between 1992 and 2014 are particularly being urged to check their smoke alarms, as all newly built houses from 1992 legally had to have mains-wired smoke alarms installed. Coupled with the misconception that you don't have to change mains-wired smoke alarms, there could be thousands of people living in Essex without effective smoke alarms.

“Over time, smoke alarms accumulate contaminants and may develop faults, compromising their reliability," Claire explained. "Regular testing may not suffice for older alarms, necessitating professional intervention to ensure optimal functionality."

To guarantee the effectiveness of smoke alarms older than 10 years, the fire service recommend replacing their detector heads, a task best entrusted to qualified electricians. The investment in maintenance and replacement is minimal compared to the invaluable protection it offers to families in the event of a fire.

To make sure your home is as safe as possible from fire, you can book a free home safety visit online here: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book