Installing new photoelectric smoke alarms in rental accommodation could save more lives, according to the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS).

QFRS Community Education Manager Inspector David Sutch said that photoelectric smoke alarms detect slow burning and smouldering fires earlier and is urging Queenslanders to replace old smoke alarms with the new technology. Inspector Sutch said photoelectric type alarms are also good at detecting fires which quickly develop flames and heavy smoke.He said, "To check what type of smoke alarms you have, look for a yellow and black radiation symbol. Photoelectric smoke alarms look like other alarms, but they do not have the radiation symbol. If your smoke alarm has a radiation symbol on it, you should replace it."Battery powered photoelectric smoke alarms can be bought from hardware stores, electrical retailers and electricians. They can be installed by anyone with home handyman skills," Inspector Sutch said.