A working smoke alarm saved a person’s life during a house fire in St Albans early on Monday morning.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews were called to the blaze at around 4.30am, where the sole occupant of the house was woken by their smoke alarm. The alarm gave them enough time to escape and call 111 for help.

Specialist Fire Investigator Bruce Irvine said, “If that smoke alarm hadn’t been there, then it is very likely I would have been investigating a fatal fire.”

Three fire crews arrived and quickly extinguished the fire, which was contained to one bedroom. Irvine credited the closed door of the room for helping to prevent the fire from spreading further.

The fire was determined to have been caused by an electrical fault in a light fitting. Despite escaping in time, the occupant suffered smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital for treatment before being released later that day.

“Fortunately, due to having working smoke alarms, the person was alerted to the fire and able to escape,” Irvine said.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging residents to ensure their homes are equipped with functioning smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways, and living areas. Heat alarms are also recommended for kitchens, laundries, bathrooms, and garages.

The organisation advises homeowners to test smoke alarms monthly and clean them every six months to prevent false alarms. They also stress the importance of having a three-step escape plan in place and practising it regularly. Help creating an escape plan is available at escapemyhouse.co.nz.

Irvine also encouraged people to check electrical fittings and appliances for faults. “Please check all the electrical elements around your home, including appliances, power sockets, and light fittings if you notice anything out of the ordinary,” he said.

“If they are sparking, blowing bulbs, or not working as they should, disconnect them from the power supply and have them checked by a registered electrician.”

The incident serves as a timely reminder of the lifesaving role smoke alarms play in protecting lives and property.