Smoke Alarm Action Day is coming up on Sunday 1 June.  

In the lead up to the day, Fire and Rescue New South Wales is reminding people to have their smoke alarms checked.  

Last year, nearly half the homes damaged or destroyed by fire in NSW did not have a working smoke alarm.  

A working smoke alarm is the best early warning sign of a fire.  

If your fire alarm is broken or damaged you can book a safety visit through the FRNSW website or by calling your local fire station. FRNSW fit a new smoke alarm that has a 10-year lifespan into your home. 

A broken smoke alarm puts your and your family in danger. Image: FRNSW.

Ahead of the winter season, FRNSW has reminded the community of some simple safety tips to keep yourself safe:  

• Have your chimney serviced by a qualified tradesperson prior to use  

• Always place a fire screen over a fireplace when in use 

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach for children  

• Check your electric and gas heaters before you use them. If you suspect a fault have the item checked by a qualified repairperson or replaced 

• Check all cords for fraying and damage 

• Plug heaters directly into wall sockets only  - not powerboards

• Don't overload power boards  

• Never leave cooking unattended  

FRNSW also reminds people that "nothing should be nearer than a metre to a heater" this winter.  

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib urged people to test their smoke alarm to help prevent fire.  

“June 1 marks the start of winter, a season when Fire and Rescue NSW consistently sees an increase in house fires and preventable deaths. 

“We want as many people as possible to take part in Smoke Alarm Action Day. The seconds you use to test your smoke alarm could save your life."