July 2011 Domestic fire alarms - nuisance fire alarms

When conducting training or conversation with friends all too often the following statement is made: "our smoke detectors are tested each week when we burn the toast!", this is is an unwanted alarm, the big issue with this is that we ignore it assuming it is the toaster again, however what if it is the one occasion it is not?
You should consider the location of smoke alarms, most people don't realise that you can get heat detectors for use in kitchen areas ensuring appropriate cover is provided in the case of fire, our advice is simple never ignore any alarm, it may be the occasion that a fire is present & time is of the essence in a fire situation.