Every winter, there are more than 1000 home fires, from which around 200 fire-related injuries occur. A fire can take hold in three minutes, yet it only takes seconds to prevent one.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) say "help us help you by taking action to stay out of harm this winter". As the lead agency for urban fires and rescue, Fire and Rescue NSW is committed to helping keep NSW safe with vital fire prevention and education messages and activities.
It is a devastating fact that around 20 people die in home fires each year.
This winter, Fire and Rescue NSW is partnering with other agencies, stakeholders and like-minded community groups to raise awareness about the impact of fires and encourage a shared commitment towards fire prevention.
Winter is a critical time for fire prevention and education due to the spike in home fires, fire-related fatalities and injuries. During winter Fire and Rescue NSW attends more than 1000 home fires – this is roughly one third of reported home fires annually.
Winter also makes up half of all reported fire-related injuries, with around 200 injuries.*
We want to reduce these numbers to zero.
Fire and Rescue NSW statistics reveal that seniors (people aged 65 and over) are the highest fire fatality risk group in the community. Fire and Rescue NSW are here to help. They offer a free Home Safety Visit program that is perfect for seniors. Firefighters will visit homes to check smoke alarms, install working smoke alarms for free, and share fire safety and prevention tips with residents.
Download your winter fire safety checklist HERE and get your home ready for winter.
Above: CLICK to learn more. Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is the State Government agency responsible for the provision of fire, rescue and hazmat services in cities and towns across New South Wales Fire and Rescue NSW is dedicated to reducing these numbers to zero through their Safety Visits and educational programs. But what can you do to help stay out of harm?
Check you have a working smoke alarm. Use a broom to click the test button of your smoke alarm, if you do not hear an alarm sound, you will need to replace the battery or replace the alarm.
Create an Home Fire Escape Plan and practise it with those in your home.
Keep looking when cooking
Don’t overload power boards
Keep everything a metre from the heater
Never use wheat bags to warm your bed
Check electric blankets for frayed cords and other damage
Don’t use outdoor heating and cooking equipment inside the home as it can be fatal Most importantly, if a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).
