QUEANBEYAN Fire Station commander Cory Wilkinson is urging those who are deaf or hard of hearing to get a specialised smoke alarm.
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The call-out follows the closure of the Canberra-based Deaf Society office which used to service surrounding regions including Queanbeyan. Inquiries will now be handled through the Parramatta-based office.
"Smoke alarms are incredibly important, without a working, effective smoke alarm, people are twice as likely to die in a house fire. It's the only early warning system to notify people of a fire," Commander Wilkinson said.
Fire officers can install a specialised smoke alarm which flashes and vibrates for those who are hearing impaired. The smoke alarms are subsidised by the NSW Government, costing $20 (normally they cost $600) or free for people who cannot afford the fee.
"These specialised smoke alarms essentially go on the roof or an area that's deemed to be a suitable place like an area where they cook or sleep," he said.
"When that smoke alarm activates it gives them a flashing strobe light and a vibration pad that might go under their pillow notifying them of an alarm. Up to seven units can be attached to one unit."
Commander Wilkinson said officers were also available to help community members install battery-operated smoke alarms or assist in changing the battery.
While, there had been very few major fires reported in Queanbeyan this season, residents should remain vigilant and safe.
"We've been pretty lucky this year. The good thing about Queanbeyan is because we have that cold weather every year, people know the safety basics," Commander Wilkinson said.
"As opposed to those up north where it's typically warmer and they've got cold snaps and they're not used to cold temperatures so they're doing [dangerous] things like bringing outdoor heaters inside.
"These heaters aren't designed for indoor use, they don't have a flue so it can end tragically with carbon monoxide poisoning."
For more information or assistance with smoke alarms please contact Queanbeyan Fire Station on 6297 2332.