Home Fire Safety

Are you fire safe in the home?

The fire services recommend this simple safety checklist to assist in keeping your home fire safe.

• Installing an adequate number of suitable smoke alarms and testing them regularly is the first step in your home fire safety plan.
• Having a written escape plan in case of fire and practicing it regularly.
• Make sure keys to all locked doors are readily accessible in case you need to escape.
• Never leave cooking or any other open flame including candles or oil burners unattended.
• Clean the lint filter of your clothes dryer each and every time you use it.
• Never smoke in bed and take extra care if consuming alcohol whilst smoking.
• In winter take extra care when using heaters, electric blankets or open fires.
• Don’t overload power points and switch off appliances when not in use.
• Always keep lighters and matches away from children and educate them that they are “tools not toys” to only be used by responsible adults.
• If you have a garage or shed remember to take extra care with any stored chemicals and fuels and always refuel mowers, edgers etc when they are cold and in the open.
• If you have a gas, electric or wood BBQ always check that it is in safe working order before lighting and that it is always in the care of a responsible adult when in use. 
• If you live in a bushfire prone area keep the ground around your home clear of leaves and other litter and remember to clean your gutters regularly.

Fire safety tips

• Remember that smoke from a fire will make you confused and that you cannot see in smoke.
• When asleep you will not smell smoke and it will in fact put you into a deeper sleep.
• If you have escaped from a home fire, remember once you get out stay out and dial Triple Zero (000).
• Oil, gas or wood heating units may require a yearly maintenance check.
• Only ever use fuses of recommended rating and install an electrical safety switch.