A safe home is one where preventable accidents are minimised and occupants can respond effectively to emergencies. This guide covers essential safety products every Australian household should have, the standards they should meet, and how to maintain them properly. Investing in home safety protects both your family and your property.

Smoke Alarms: Your First Line of Defence

Smoke alarms save lives. Australian law requires working smoke alarms in all homes, but requirements vary by state. Understanding both the legal minimums and best practices ensures your home is properly protected.

Photoelectric smoke alarms are recommended over ionisation types for Australian homes. Photoelectric alarms respond faster to smouldering fires, which are more common in residential settings. Look for alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014.

At minimum, install alarms on every level of your home and in every bedroom. Hallways outside sleeping areas are also critical locations. For comprehensive protection, add alarms in living areas and near the kitchen (but not so close that cooking triggers false alarms).

Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds. Replace batteries annually (many people do this when clocks change for daylight saving). Replace entire alarm units every 10 years, even hardwired models, as sensors degrade over time.

Fire Extinguishers

While not legally required in most Australian homes, fire extinguishers provide valuable early response capability. A small fire caught early can be extinguished before it spreads, potentially saving lives and property.

For typical homes, an ABE dry powder extinguisher rated at least 2.0kg covers most fire types including Class A (ordinary combustibles like wood and paper), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class E (electrical equipment). Position extinguishers near potential fire sources like kitchens and garages, but not so close that a fire would block access.

Consider a fire blanket for the kitchen. Fire blankets are effective for smothering small cooking fires, particularly oil or fat fires where water would be dangerous. They're simpler to use than extinguishers and create less mess.

First Aid Kits

A well-stocked first aid kit enables immediate response to injuries while awaiting professional medical help if needed. The contents should match your household's needs and activities.

Basic home kits should include various sized bandages, sterile wound dressings, adhesive tape, antiseptic solution, scissors, tweezers, disposable gloves, and a first aid manual. Add items for specific household needs like children's medications, EpiPens for allergies, or supplies for managing chronic conditions.

Keep first aid kits in accessible locations known to all household members. Check contents quarterly, replacing used or expired items. Consider taking a first aid course to use your kit effectively when needed.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas that can be fatal. It's produced by any fuel-burning appliance including gas heaters, hot water systems, stoves, and fireplaces. Australian homes with any gas appliances should have CO detectors.

Install detectors near sleeping areas and on each level of your home. Unlike smoke which rises, carbon monoxide mixes with air, so detectors can be placed at any height. Follow manufacturer instructions for specific placement recommendations.

Test CO detectors monthly and replace batteries as needed. Most units have a lifespan of 5-7 years and should be replaced when expired. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If your detector alarms, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

Security Essentials

Home security deters break-ins and provides peace of mind. While comprehensive security systems exist, even basic measures significantly reduce risk.

Quality deadlocks on exterior doors are fundamental. Look for locks meeting Australian Standard AS 4145.2. Ensure doors themselves are solid and frames are secure. A strong lock on a weak door provides little protection.

Window locks prevent windows from being opened more than a few centimetres when locked. This maintains ventilation while preventing entry. Security screens on doors and windows add another layer without blocking light or airflow.

Motion-sensor lighting around entries and dark areas deters intruders and reduces trip hazards. Solar-powered options avoid wiring requirements. Smart home systems can simulate occupancy when you're away.

Emergency Preparedness

Australian conditions create specific emergency risks including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. Basic emergency preparedness protects your household when disasters strike.

Maintain an emergency kit with drinking water (at least 3 days' supply), non-perishable food, battery or crank-powered radio, torch with spare batteries, basic tools, and copies of important documents. Include any essential medications and special needs items for household members.

Know your local emergency risks and have a household plan. Identify evacuation routes and meeting points. Understand your home's utility shutoffs for gas, electricity, and water. Register with local alert services to receive emergency warnings.

Child Safety Products

Homes with children require additional safety considerations. Young children explore actively without understanding risks, making proactive safety measures essential.

Pool fencing is legally required in all Australian states and territories. Fencing must be compliant with Australian Standard AS 1926 and should be regularly inspected for gaps or damage. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.

Inside the home, secure heavy furniture like bookshelves and televisions to walls to prevent tip-overs. Use outlet covers on unused power points. Cabinet locks keep dangerous items like cleaning products and medications out of reach. Stair gates prevent falls for crawling babies and toddlers.

Maintenance and Testing Schedule

Safety equipment only works if properly maintained. Create a regular testing and maintenance schedule to ensure your safety products remain functional when needed.

Monthly tests should include smoke alarms, CO detectors, and checking fire extinguisher pressure gauges. Quarterly reviews should cover first aid kit contents, emergency kit supplies (especially water and food expiry dates), and security system functionality.

Annual tasks include replacing smoke alarm batteries, having gas appliances professionally serviced, and reviewing your emergency plan. Replace safety products according to manufacturer guidelines, even if they appear functional.

Document your maintenance activities. A simple calendar reminder system ensures nothing is forgotten. Some smart home systems can automate reminders for safety equipment testing.

Investing in Home Safety

Home safety products are investments in protection, not expenses to be minimised. Quality equipment from reputable brands with appropriate Australian certifications provides reliability when it matters most. While budget options exist, critical safety equipment isn't the place to cut costs.

Consider your home's specific risks when prioritising purchases. A home with gas appliances needs CO detectors. A home in a bushfire-prone area needs robust emergency preparation. A home with a pool needs compliant fencing. Address the most significant risks first, then expand your safety measures over time.