Don't forget about checking your smoke detectors

Nothing is forever which is certainly true of smoke detectors.

A properly functioning smoke detector can make the difference between life or death literally.

If you read this article and you only take away one piece of information, it should be this; smoke detectors expire!

Replacing your smoke detectors on scheduled basis could someday save your life.

Most smoke detectors have a useful life of ten years and fire alarm code requires that these are replaced upon expiration.

The expiration date should be printed on the back of the module, sometimes under the lid of the battery compartment.

Likewise, carbon monoxide detectors are also stamped with expiration dates.

These tend to last between five and seven years.

With both types of detectors, it's also important to test them regularly and replace them immediately if they're found to be out of order.

And while you're in fire safety mode, check the expiration date on your kitchen fire extinguisher, (what? you don't have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen? Please get one!)

The lifespan of a fire extinguisher can vary, but disposable models usually last between five and fifteen years.

Non-disposable models need to be recharged periodically, often every five or six years.

These extinguishers should have a tag where you can verify and record the date of every recharge service or other maintenance.

Another electrical device that won't always be there for you is the surge protector you use to protect your computer and sensitive electronics.

Except surge protectors don't go bad after a number of years -- they expire after absorbing a certain amount of electrical surge.

If your surge protector has an indicator light that shows whether it's actively protecting, you'll know yours is shot when the light won't come on anymore.

Without an indicator light, the safest route is to replace a surge protector after about two years or a major electrical surge event, whichever comes first.

Don't leave electrical safety to chance particularly for children and even adults. 

Contact Simon Caddy Electrical today by calling 0400 110081 for a no obligation consultation.

We service the Upper North Shore area including Hornsby, Wahroonga, Pymble, Turramurra, Killara, Lindfield, Roseville, Chatswood down to North Sydney.