Devastatingly around 20 people die in home fires each year. Winter is a critical time for fire prevention and education due to the spike in home fires, fire-related deaths and injuries.

During winter Fire and Rescue NSW attends more than 1100 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 100 injuries.

Fire and Rescue NSW is dedicated to reducing these numbers to zero through their Safety Visits and educational programs. Be safe, not sorry this winter:

• 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 a 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).

Most importantly, if a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).

For more tips on keeping fire safe at your home visit https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=879