Minister announces trial of fire risk reduction program for NSW homes
Published: 11th April 2006
The Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly announced the trial of a new initiative by the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) aimed at helping to reduce risks to residents and firefighters from house fires.Mr Kelly said the Fire Risk Identification Guide (FRIDG) would involve the use of bright yellow stickers posted outside a house – detailing information designed to give attending firefighters a head start in an emergency.
"Builders of a new or renovated house will identify certain aspects of a home's construction and layout and list those details on the yellow FRIDG sticker," Mr Kelly said.
"Owners of the residence will place the sticker in the meter box and when firefighters arrive and shut down the power at the meter, they will have vital, early information about key structural features," he said.
"I would like to congratulate NSW Fire Brigades on the initiative which has the potential to save lives and I'd encourage homeowners to get involved in the trial."
Mr Kelly said the information would make a significant difference to the safety of home occupants, firefighters, neighbours and other emergency workers.
"The visible guide will allow firefighters to predict more quickly how and where the fire is likely to spread and what measures can be taken to fight it and to rescue occupants," he said.
The Minister made the announcement in Penrith with local Member, Karyn Paluzzano.
"I welcome the trial – it is a smart approach to fire risk reduction and it applies to any residence across the state," Ms Paluzzano said.
"Hopefully, the trial will allow firefighters to be even more effective in fighting house fires and result in a reduction in the severity and impact of home fires," she said.
Mr Kelly said local councils in Sydney and regional NSW would begin a 6-12 month trial in their areas over coming weeks, including Penrith, Baulkham Hills, Campbelltown, Liverpool, Camden, Sutherland, Blacktown, Eurobodalla, Dubbo, Katoomba, Coffs Harbour, Tweed Shire and Wyong.
The initiative is supported by local councils, the Local Government and Shires Association, the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors, and the Building Regulations Advisory Council.
Media contact: Michelle Stone on 0400 280467 or Office: 9228 3999