QBE has called on homeowners to shower more “love and attention” on smoke detectors, as a new study shows the devices are poorly understood.

About 86% of 1002 respondents are unaware smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, and one in five have never changed or can’t recall when they last changed their battery.

The insurer says it is important that more consumers understand the importance of a working smoke alarm. A faulty detector increases the risk of house fire fatalities by 80%, QBE says.

“The data reveals that a significant number of Australians are not giving fire safety a big enough thought,” GM Claims Arron Mann said.

“Smoke alarms are a critical early warning sign of danger, particularly at night when sleeping occupants are not aware of the fire and can be gravely affected by breathing in the smoke.”

QBE sponsored the study before today’s annual call for households to test smoke alarms, change batteries and fix faults.

“I really like the idea that some people have adopted April 1 each year as ‘change your smoke alarm battery day’,” Mr Mann said.

“It’s a trigger to show your home’s smoke detector some love and attention. After all, these smart little devices don’t look like much, but they play a huge role in keeping us safe.”