Preventing false alarms

Hazard Alert #8

False fire alarms cost time, money and resources.smoke detectors

Cost to Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV)

  • Manpower
  • Time wasted
  • Taking effort away from real fires

Cost to you

  • Disruption due to evacuation
  • The bill or part off for the false alarm fire service call out (up to $5000 per call out)

Remember

Your fire alarm can be set off by:

  • Overheated cooking oil
  • Overcooked food e.g. burnt toast
  • Steam from cooking and showers
  • Hairspray and aerosols
  • Hair dryers
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Candles and incense

Tips

The cause of many false alarms are preventable. It is important to:

  • Do not leave your cooking unattended and only cook in areas that have designated kitchen facilities
  • Do NOT open doors to let steam, smoke or cooking fumes into the corridor. Open windows instead
  • Always use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Do not use hairsprays, aerosols or hair dryers in bedrooms. Only use in bathrooms
  • Smoking, lighting candles or incense is strictly prohibited in residences

Document owner: MRS Safety officer
Document date: 3 January 2023 
Date of review: 3 January 2026