THERE may not have been any fires around, but Wednesday's rain still kept Ballarat fire crews on their toes as a series of alarms were set off across the region.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The heavy rain, which brought more than 20mm to Ballarat and nearby towns also set off a number of alarms from Federation University to Sovereign Hill, to aged care facilities.
Another alarm was also set off at Central Square in Ballarat, but it was discovered that workers had tapped a sprinkler system which caused it to run
Overnight, CFA crews were called to another two false alarms at Melbourne University's Creswick campus and at John Curtin Aged Care, also at Creswick.
A Ballarat City fire station spokesperson said heavy rain often meant that alarms could be set off.
He said, even just the smallest hole could see water run into the alarm setting it off or wind, which was also strong on Wednesday, could also set off the sensor.
Last night dew would have also played a part in the Creswick alarms as condensation build up could also play a part.
Smoke detectors also generally have an emitter in the centre, a sealed container with a detector on one side as a control, and an open container and detector on the other.
If smoke, dust, water or insects get between the emitter and either detector, they will cause a difference which triggers the alarm.
"Have you signed up to The Courier's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat."