Firies warning after fatal house fires
Published: 12th November 2015
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has called for the community to take every precaution to avoid a fire in the home, following recent fatal house fires in NSW.
Three people died in separate accidental house fires in the past week across the state. The total number of house fire fatalities this year is 21 compared to 11 last year.
FRNSW Commissioner Greg Mullins said the increase is concerning and people needed to take the risk of a fire breaking out in their home seriously.
“It is also concerning that many of these homes have not had a working smoke alarm. Working smoke alarms can alert people, including anyone sleeping, and give them enough time to escape the fire.
“While we tend to see more home fires during the cooler months, they can still happen at any time of year so people shouldn’t be complacent about home fire safety.
"The change of season is an important time to remember that heating and cooling devices should be used according to manufacturer's instructions. Ensure power circuits, power boards and extension leads are not overloaded.
“It’s also important to remember to turn off electrical appliances before you go to bed, keep a close eye on pots and pans when you’re cooking and clean the lint filter on the clothes dryer.
“Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility so if you know someone who lives alone or who is elderly we encourage you to have a conversation with them and check up on their fire safety.
"One of the most important things you can do in your home is to have a working smoke alarm and a practiced home escape plan. If a fire happens in your home, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000),” Commissioner Mullins said.
More home fire safety tips:
- keep looking when cooking
- clean lint filters on the clothes dryer before or after each use
- don’t overload power points and power boards
- keep candles well away from curtains and put them out before leaving the room
- never smoke in bed.