From 1 July 2022, all homes must be fitted with smoke detectors

Smoke alarms are becoming mandatory in every home. In fact, this duty has been in place for new-build homes for years and these regulations are going to apply to existing homes as well. This is not surprising. Every year, fires occur in 1 in 1,000 homes. Usually caused by cigarettes not being extinguished or by electrical appliances.

In fires, most casualties occur at night due to smoke inhalation. This is because when you sleep, you cannot smell anything. In more than 60% of the fires involving fatalities, smoke detectors had not been installed. By extending regulations, the government hopes to save more lives. Smoke detectors do detect smoke and immediately sound an alarm. Your sense of smell may not work at night, but your hearing will not let you down.

The rules?

From 1 July 2022, it is compulsory to install smoke detectors in every home, both rental and owner-occupied. At least one smoke detector must be installed in the escape route on every floor where there is a living area or enclosed space. 1 July 2022 was chosen to give home and building owners enough time to implement these measures. Of course, the rule is; the sooner, the safer. Don't take a risk and create a safe living environment.

Which smoke detectors are suitable?

There are many smoke detectors on the market and these have big differences in quality. Here, do not choose the cheapest one where you have to replace batteries every year. We advise you to choose a smoke detector with a lifespan of 10 years. It is also wise to choose detectors with a pairing function. This linking function ensures that all detectors go off if one detector has detected smoke.

Smoke detectors can therefore be placed as stand-alone solutions, linked and if you have a electronic alarm system has, you can extend this with smoke detectors.

Smoke detectors as an extension of your alarm system

If your home is equipped with an alarm system, you can easily expand it with smoke detectors. By linking smoke detectors to the alarm system, all alarm triggers are triggered when smoke is detected. This could be the flashing light and siren but also notification to the alarm center or your mobile phone. The latter is very nice if you are not at home.

Choose the right detectors and place them in the right locations to avoid false alarms as much as possible. On the website of the fire brigade are useful tips. Need help with your choice or installation? Then take contact with us.