Description

Domestic smoke alarms are designed for use in private dwellings to detect and give warning of the presence of smoke, indicating that a fire is developing. They are small units, easily attached to the ceiling (preferably) or high up a wall. 

Single 9 volt battery-powered smoke alarms are the most common and the cheapest but are not recommended. Better options are mains powered with battery back-up or units with a long-life battery. 

Interconnected smoke alarms are a worthwhile upgrade. They improve the chances of early notification, because they all make noise when the first alarm detects smoke. 

Scope

This bulletin contains updated smoke alarm and domestic sprinkler information and discusses new regulations for residential rental properties.

Stand-alone smoke alarms are required as a minimum for domestic applications, and sprinklers are a worthwhile upgrade because they control fire spread and growth.