Designed for domestic use, the Exelgard alarm safety switch automatically switches off a home’s power circuits when a smoke alarm detects fire, helping to minimise the spread of fire.

The Exelgard Alarm Safety Switch must be installed by a licensed electrician and in accordance with detailed instruction in the unit’s manual. It is positioned alongside the switchboard and connected to the hard-wired smoke alarms throughout a home.

If a smoke alarm triggers, the switch automatically cuts off the selected power circuit breaker in the switchboard and stops the power supply to household appliances.

“In the event of a fire, a fast response can help to slow the spread of fire, give homeowners extra time to safely evacuate and minimise the damage caused to property”, Mathew Pearson from Exelgard says.

“Turning off the power is one of the first steps that should be taken in the event of a fire and the Smoke Alarm Safety Switch enables homeowners to do so automatically. Disconnecting the power supply also makes it safer for homeowners to extinguish a fire as it reduces the chance of electrocution.”

While the safety switch disconnects power to appliances, it does not affect a home’s lighting, ensuring householders have complete visibility in an emergency situation.

The switch must be tested and reset at least once a month and must never exceed four test and re-set operations per minute. As the switch relies on smoke alarm signals, it is vital that smoke alarms are maintained according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Homeowners must remember to check their smoke alarms once a month by pushing the ‘test’ button on the unit and change the batteries every 12 months. It is recommended that every household has at least one smoke alarm installed between the bedrooms and remainder of the house, and on any other storey within the home.