Smoke Alarm Scheme - text only
- SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES >
- HELP FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF OR HEARING IMPAIRED >
- SPECIALISED SMOKE ALARMS >
- A SYSTEM TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS >
- WHO IS ELIGIBLE? >
- OTHER OPTIONS >
- HOW TO APPLY >
- IF YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE SMOKE ALARM SCHEME >
- FUNDING >
- CONTACT US >
SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES
Home fire safety is a vital issue for the whole community. Every home needs adequate smoke alarms and a fire escape plan.
The majority of home fire fatalities occur during the night because there is an inadequate warning to the sleeping occupant.
A smoke alarm can provide an early warning, giving occupants a better chance for a safe evacuation.
HELP FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF OR HEARING IMPAIRED
The SA Government is providing help for people who have a profound hearing loss and cannot hear a standard smoke alarm. The government has recognised the additional costs associated with specialised equipment and has pledged to support people with limited means.
People who are eligible for the Smoke Alarm Scheme will receive a specialised smoke alarm system, which includes free installation.
SPECIALISED SMOKE ALARMS
The Specialised Smoke Alarm Systems have three main components.
- Audible warning from the smoke alarm, located outside the bedroom door. This unit activates a visual alerter placed in the bedroom.
- The visual alerter unit is located near the bedhead and when triggered, a strobe light flashes continuously. This unit is connected to a vibrapad attachment.
- The vibrapad is a small disc-shaped unit, which fits comfortably within the pillowslip. The vibrapad vibrates for the duration of the alarm to help wake the person.
The combination of warning sound, flashing light and
vibration signal is considered the most effective system to help awaken the person.
A SYSTEM TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS
For those people who are eligible, the Smoke Alarm Scheme can provide one Specialised Smoke Alarm System as outlined here. This includes supply and installation free of charge. People are welcome to buy extra parts, if needed, for other rooms.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
The Smoke Alarm Scheme is available in all metropolitan and country areas in South Australia.
To qualify for assistance through the Smoke Alarm Scheme, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be an adult with a profound hearing loss
- Have a Health Care Card or meet other low income criteria
- Not be eligible for any other smoke alarm provision schemes (please see below).
Priority will be given to people who live alone in their own home.
OTHER OPTIONS
You may qualify for help through other avenues. Discuss your needs with:
SA Housing Trust – Your local SAHT office
Residential Care Facility – Your centre manager/owners.
HOW TO APPLY
Contact the Smoke Alarm Scheme Office, based within Hearing Solutions, for an application pack.
You will need to provide details to support your entitlement. All information remains confidential.
If you are eligible, arrangements will be made to supply and professionally install the Specialised Smoke Alarm System in your home.
Please note: A waiting period may apply.
IF YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE SMOKE ALARM SCHEME
Even if you are not eligible for any assistance, you may buy a specialised smoke alarm. A number of brands are available. Prices and features vary. For more information contact the Smoke Alarm Scheme Office which is located in the Guide Dogs SA.NT building. The scheme is provided by Hearing Solutions which is a program of Guide Dogs SA.NT.
FUNDING
The Department for Families and Communities has contributed funds towards this program.
CONTACT US
Please contact us for more information through our online enquiry form or by phoning 08 8203 8390 or 8303 8391 (TTY).