Be fire safe this winter

By Southern Riverina News

Apr 25, 2024

Every winter, there are more than 1100 home fires, from which around 100 fire-related injuries occur.

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A fire can take hold in three minutes, yet it only takes seconds to prevent one.

With a motto of “be safe, not sorry”, Fire + Rescue NSW says you can help them by taking action.

Following are some key ways you can be winter fire safe.

Smoke alarms:

To meet legislation you must have at least one working smoke alarm on each level of the home placed between bedrooms and living areas.

FRNSW also recommends having one in each bedroom, and says hardwired and interconnected is best.

Did you know that you will not smell smoke while asleep? Only working smoke alarms save lives.

Things you should do now:

Test that your smoke alarm/s are working. If not, change the batteries or replace the alarm.
Check the smoke alarm is in date. Smoke alarms have a lifespan of ten years.
Give the smoke alarm a vacuum, if you haven't done so in the last six months, to remove dust and any insects.

FRNSW also offers the following advice to make sure your winter is fire safe.

Fireplaces and chimneys:

Ensure your flues and chimneys are regularly cleaned. Place a fire screen in front of open fires to protect your family.

Have your chimney serviced prior to using it by a qualified tradesperson.
Purchase a fire screen if you do not own one. Fire screens should always be placed in front of fireplaces when in use.
Ensure your wood pile sits at least a metre away from the fireplace.
Choose a safe place to store matches and lighters where children cannot reach and that is at least a metre away from the fireplace.

Heaters:

Check your electric and gas heaters before you use them. If you suspect a fault have the item checked by a qualified repairer or replaced. Check all cords for fraying and damage. Plug heaters directly into wall sockets only.
Do not overload powerboards.
Ensure everything is kept a metre from the heater.
Install any new heaters and use as per manufacturer's instructions.
Check your portable outdoor heaters before use and have serviced or replaced if required. Ensure that the area where you plan to use them is level, well ventilated and away from awnings and other combustible materials.

For more winter fire safety tips on these topics and others, read the full Winter Fire Safety Checklist at www.fire.nsw.gov.au.

By Southern Riverina News

Southern Riverina News generic byline.