Winter fire safety

Tragically, 21 lives are lost yearly in residential fires in NSW. Many could have been saved with the early detection of a working smoke alarm.

In NSW, it’s a legal requirement to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home.

Fire and Rescue NSW is urging the community to check they have a smoke alarm, test that it is working and if it isn’t, contact them for a free safety visit: fire.nsw.gov.au/safetyvisits

When a fire takes hold, every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire, that’s why having a fire escape plan is crucial for every household.

Without a plan, lives are at risk. Fire and Rescue NSW is urging the community to avoid disaster and create a home fire escape plan. You can visit their website, download the template and draw your escape plan. Once created practice it at least twice a year to ensure everyone knows what to do.

Remember, in case of fire: stay low, get out, and stay out!

Security bars can trap you, so ensure windows and doors have quick-release devices. Apartments have specific evacuation plans; learn and practice them.

Protect your loved ones by planning and practicing your escape plan today. Download your plan today: fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe

Did you know that almost half of all residential fires start in the kitchen? It’s a sobering statistic, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk.

Fire and Rescue NSW is asking the community to familiarise and follow these essential kitchen fire safety tips:

• Keep children away from cooking areas and consider installing stove guards.
• Heat cooking oil slowly in the right-sized saucepan to avoid splatters.
• Turn pot and pan handles inwards to prevent accidental knocks.
• Regularly clean stove grills, range hood filters, and kitchen appliances.
• Install a fire extinguisher and blanket, located at least 1 meter from the stove.
• Use non-slip mats around the stove and sink area.
• If a fire occurs, switch off the appliances, leave, and call 000 from a safe place.

Practice these precautions to ensure a safe and secure kitchen environment for you and your family.

For more information visit fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe

Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing fire risk in NSW. Fire and Rescue NSW wants members of the NSW community to understand the risks and be prepared if things go wrong.

Preparation is key:

• Ensure functioning smoke alarms where batteries are charged or stored.
• Charge batteries on non-flammable surfaces like concrete floors, avoiding beds or sofas.
• Large batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated areas like garages or sheds.

Charging Caution:

• Never charge batteries unattended or when sleeping.
• Disconnect devices once fully charged.
• Avoid using and charging devices on flammable surfaces or if damaged.

Charging Essentials:

• Use only approved chargers with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark.
• Beware of compatibility issues with chargers.

Safe Disposal:

• Never dispose of damaged batteries in regular waste bins.
• Use designated battery recycling drop-off points.

Warning Signs:

• Dispose of damaged batteries promptly to mitigate fire risks.
• By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your home and community from Lithium-ion battery-related fires. Stay informed, stay safe.

For more information visit fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe