As the leaves start to turn and we finally pull out the comfy jumpers, it’s easy to get caught up in the cosy side of autumn. But before you settle in, it’s a good idea to tick off some important safety checks around the house, especially when it comes to fire safety.
Autumn is the perfect time to make sure your smoke alarms are working properly and your heating systems are in top condition. A few simple checks now could save you a lot of trouble down the track.
And if you're not too keen on clambering up ladders or fiddling with heaters yourself, no worries — there are plenty of qualified tradies on ServiceSeeking.com.au who can sort it all out for you.
You might be wondering, why the fuss in autumn? Well, this is the season when we start using our heaters, fireplaces, and electric blankets again after months of sitting idle. Dust can build up, parts can wear out, and things that once worked perfectly might now pose a real risk if left unchecked. Plus, cooler weather means closed windows and doors, which can trap smoke inside the home if a fire does break out.
It’s better to be safe than sorry — and a quick check now could make all the difference.
Smoke alarms aren’t just a good idea; they’re a legal requirement in every home across Australia. But they’re not much use if the batteries are flat or if the unit’s too old to work properly. Here's what you should be looking at:
Test your alarms monthly by pressing the test button until you hear the loud beep.
Change the batteries yearly, even if the alarm still seems fine. (Tip: many Aussies do it when daylight savings ends.)
Replace smoke alarms every ten years. Over time, the sensors wear out and won't detect smoke as quickly.
Install enough alarms — ideally in every bedroom, hallway, and living area.
If you’re unsure whether your smoke alarms are up to scratch, or you want to upgrade to interconnected or hard-wired systems, it’s worth getting a licensed electrician to give you a hand. You’ll find qualified sparkies on ServiceSeeking.com.au who can install or replace alarms properly and ensure they meet local regulations.
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm home on a crisp autumn evening. But heating systems — whether gas, electric, wood-fired, or reverse cycle — need a bit of TLC to stay safe and efficient. Here’s what to check:
Gas heaters should be serviced at least once every two years by a licensed gasfitter. A faulty gas heater can leak carbon monoxide, which is deadly.
Electric heaters need a good once-over, too. Check for frayed cords or signs of damage, and if in doubt, have an electrician inspect them.
Wood heaters and fireplaces need their chimneys cleaned regularly to remove soot and creosote buildup, which can cause chimney fires.
Ducted systems and air conditioners should have their filters cleaned and inspected to make sure they’re running efficiently and safely.
If it’s been a few years since your last heating system check, or if something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s smart to call in a pro. On ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can quickly find qualified gasfitters, electricians, and heating specialists who can give your system a full service before winter kicks in.
While you’re in safety mode, it’s worth having a look at a few other areas around the house:
Clear gutters of dry leaves and twigs to reduce fire hazards.
Keep portable heaters away from curtains, bedding, and furniture.
Have a fire extinguisher and fire blanket in the kitchen and know how to use them.
Create a simple fire escape plan for your family — and practise it.
Again, if the job looks bigger than a DIY effort, don’t stress — ServiceSeeking.com.au can connect you with handymen and maintenance tradies who can help tick all these boxes before winter sets in.
It doesn’t take much to make your home safer this autumn. A few quick checks, a bit of maintenance, and a little bit of help from the experts can go a long way towards protecting your family and giving you peace of mind.
If you’re ready to get it sorted, jump onto ServiceSeeking.com.au to post a job and get free quotes from trusted local tradies. Whether it’s testing your smoke alarms, servicing your heater, or clearing out those gutters, there’s someone ready to lend a hand — and it’s often quicker and more affordable than you might think.
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy everything autumn has to offer!