An outdated or faulty smoke alarm may just be as dangerous as having no smoke alarm at all. Being unprotected from the possibility of a fire is a risk Quell hopes no family has to face.

To know when your smoke alarm was manufactured, look for a batch number, which is typically printed near the battery compartment. For example, a batch number of 2417 indicates that the product was manufactured in the 24th week of 2017. All Quell alarms have a date of manufacture printed clearly on the base.

Some other handy tips to maintaining your smoke alarm include:

• Clean and vacuum your smoke alarm at least every 6 months. This will help nuisance alarms caused by dust or other contaminants.
• Test your alarm after installing new batteries – simply press the test button.
• Replace your smoke alarm battery at least once a year, typically at daylight saving time.

Every second counts when it comes to fire safety.

So here’s just a few tips to help keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire.

• Draw a floor plan of your home and include two ways of escape from each room. Plan an escape route and ensure everyone knows how to get out.
• Keep door and window keys in or next to locks so they can be opened easily.
• Blocked exits are a hazard so keep exits clear of anything that may hinder your exit.
• Decide on a meeting place outside e.g. the letterbox.
• Know who will assist children and those with mobility/health issues.
• Call 000 from a neighbour’s phone or your mobile phone.
• Once you are out, don’t return to the home. Never go back into a burning building.