A big thankyou to @Tracy Stephenson , @Alex Courter , @Jason Carney, @Kim Barrie for all joining HomeSafe Academy this week. I have been flat out trying to play catch-up after being released from hospital and returning home from Perth this week. There are lots of things happening in the near future, as I get the final edits out of the way for my guides. So, as they say in the classics ... Watch this space!

In Western Australia, April 1st is the annual reminder date to check smoke detectors. You should push the test button to ensure it works, check for dust or cobwebs, and replace any 9V batteries. More importantly, note the replacement date on the back of the unit, as all smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years to ensure they remain effective, according to the Western Australian Government. Why check on April 1st? - It's a memorable date to help people remember their smoke alarm maintenance.  - It serves as a reminder that regular testing is not a joke, but a crucial safety practice.  What to do 1. Push the test button: Hold it down until a loud alert tone is heard to ensure it's working.  2. Clean it: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or cobwebs from the alarm unit.  3. Change the battery: If your smoke alarm uses a 9V battery, replace it with a new, high-quality, long-life battery.  4. Check the age: Look for the manufacturer's date on the back of the alarm. If the alarm is more than 10 years old, it needs to be replaced.  5. Know your type: Replaceable battery alarms: These need a new battery every year.  Why it's critical - Fires happen fast: Smoke inhalation is a major danger, especially when you are asleep, and can be fatal.  - Early warning is key: A working smoke alarm provides early warning, giving you time to escape a house fire.  - Only working alarms save lives: Having a smoke alarm is not enough; it must be functioning correctly.  For more information, visit the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) website

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July 27, 2024 | Loss of Services In the modern digital age, internet connectivity is the lifeline of countless services and operations. When this lifeline is disrupted, as seen in the recent global CrowdStrike incident that affected banks and supermarkets, the ripple effects can be profound. Customers found themselves unable to complete transactions, highlighting the unforeseen importance of having alternative solutions like cash. This incident offers a valuable lesson in preparedness for both individuals and businesses. Here’s what you can do to navigate an internet outage effectively. Understanding the Impact The CrowdStrike incident showcased how dependent we are on internet services. Banks, supermarkets, and various other sectors rely heavily on online connectivity for transactions, inventory management, and communication. An outage can lead to: - Inability to process card payments: Both credit and debit card transactions are halted, causing frustration for customers and potential loss of revenue for businesses. - ATM disruptions: Cash withdrawals and deposits become impossible, leaving customers without access to their funds. - Inventory management issues: Supermarkets and stores that use cloud-based systems for stock management may struggle to track inventory accurately. Immediate Steps for You 1. Keep Cash on Hand: The outage demonstrated the importance of having a cash reserve. While we lean towards a cashless society, having a small amount of cash can be a lifesaver during such disruptions. 2. Use Alternative Payment Methods: Mobile payment solutions that work offline, like certain NFC-based payment apps, can be helpful. Ensure your digital wallet apps are updated and understand which ones offer offline capabilities. 3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like non-perishable food, bottled water, and medications. During an extended outage, this can help you avoid crowded stores and ensure you have the basics covered. 4. Stay Informed: Use battery-powered radios or offline news sources to stay updated on the situation. Social media can be useful but be wary of misinformation.