Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is urging the public not to become complacent about home fire dangers now that winter has passed.
There were 930 residential fires across the state during spring last year and FRNSW reminds the public not to drop its guard during the warmer weather.
FRNSW to remind householders
No fewer than 369 or 40% of last spring’s fires started in kitchens or cooking areas, prompting FRNSW to remind householders to invest in a fire extinguisher, a fire blanket, and working smoke alarms.
Never throw water onto a kitchen fire, it can make it worse, use a fire blanket instead
Never throw water onto a kitchen fire, it can make it worse, use a fire blanket instead.
It’s also vital to ensure ‘they’re looking while they’re cooking’, leaving an active stove unattended is a recipe for disaster. This season also means ‘spring cleaning’ for many households.
Other discarded materials
Residents should clear out any rubbish, piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes, unused furniture and any other discarded materials that could fuel a fire. The warmer weather means more outdoor entertaining.
Ensure LPG-fuelled barbecues are in good, working order and haven’t sprung a leak. Check the hoses and connections before use.
Also, where necessary, begin preparing the home for the bushfire season. Remove flammable materials from the yard and clear gutters of leaf litter and debris.
Working smoke alarms in the home
Practice carrying out a home safety escape plan and ensure emergency exits are clear
Check they have working smoke alarms in the home and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust particles that can reduce their performance. Practice carrying out a home safety escape plan and ensure emergency exits are clear.
FRNSW Acting Assistant Commissioner – Community Safety, David Felton, said running through measures on a spring checklist can protect the loved ones and safeguard all they hold valuable.
Install or replace smoke alarms
"Minimize the risks and you have peace of mind," said Acting Assistant Commissioner - David Felton, adding "If you’re uncertain about how safe your home is, you can visit our website and book a home safety visit."
He continues, "Our firefighters can come to your home, provide crucial advice and install or replace smoke alarms where necessary, free of charge."
