COMMON CAUSES OF FIRE IN THE HOME

Electric blankets burn.

Don't sleep with electric blankets on or leave the house without switching them off. Never leave weighty objects on the bed when the electric blanket is on - be especially careful of pets. Have your blanket checked by an authorised repairer or service centre if you suspect overheating. Always follow manufacturers instructions for care and storage. Ensure each blanket is inspected annually at the beginning of the cooler months

Butt-out before bedtime.
Smoking in bed could be fatal for the entire household - tiny embers can smoulder unnoticed and burst into flame much later. Ensure butts are properly extinguished before placing in rubbish bins.

	Candles are Naked Flames
	Never leave candles burning overnight. Many house fires are the direct result of curtains or drapes catching alight on a lit candle. Candles easily melt and can spread hot wax and flame, place all candles in a secure candle holder.

Place a mesh guard in front of open fires.
Have all open fireplaces inspected and serviced according to the condition of the chimney and fireplace. Check for cracks or leaks in the chimney. Always have a secure fitting wire mesh guard in front of the fireplace. Never leave children unattended near open fires and heaters. Clothing should not be dried close to heaters or open fires.

	Store flammable liquids carefully
	Store all flammable liquids such as petrol, kerosene or methylated spirits away from heaters, hot water service pilot flames and other naked flames. Check the label before use and storage. Use extreme care when decanting.

Have Appliances Professionally Installed
Be careful where you place portable appliances. Have all heating appliances inspected and serviced according to manufacturers' requirements. Never leave children unattended near open fires and heaters. Clothing should not be dried close to heaters or open fires.

	Keep Matches and Lighters Away from Children.
	Always keep matches and cigarette lighters out of the reach of small children. Fire holds a fascination for many children, sometimes with fatal results. Teach young children to take any matches or lighters they find straight to an adult. Older children should be taught that matches and lighters are only to be used in the presence of an adult. Always use child proof lighters

	Kitchen stoves are a major fire hazard.
	Check the proximity of electric cords, curtains, tea towels and oven cloths to ensure they are at a safe distance from the stove. Be careful of long, flowing sleeves on dressing gowns contacting gas flames. Never leave the stove unattended.

Faulty wiring is dangerous.
Always use a qualified electrician for all electrical wiring work. Never attempt to do it yourself. Double adapters and powerboards can overload power points. Install safety switches and correct fuses. Electrical appliances . . . check them or throw them out.

	Faulty appliances cause fires.
	Repair or discard them. Destroy faulty appliances before disposing of them. Electrical appliances bought at garage sales or markets should be professionally checked before use. Never place cords under carpets or rugs. Faulty plugs and cords should be replaced. If fire starts, turn off power at power point or switchboard immediately, if safe to do. .

	Don't get burnt by home heating.
	Make sure all heating appliances are professionally installed to Building Regulations and Australian Standards, particularly flues. Check walls and floors are insulated from heat sources. Be careful where you place portable appliances. Never leave an open fire alight when you leave the house or go to bed. Extinguish all flames and embers completely and ensure ashes are cold before discarding.

Switch on a light - not a fire.
Discard lampshades that are dose to light globes and lamp bases that can be knocked over easily. Recessed downlights should be properly insulated from timber panelling, ceiling timbers or insulation materials. Check light fittings for heat build-up.

	Deadlocks can be Deadly
	Deadlocks play an important role in the security of your home and valuables. Never lock the deadlock when you are in the house, should a fire develop you may not be able to find the keys in time to escape. Leave the key in the door or install a key holder close to the door, remember, ease of escape is vitally important.

FOR EMERGENCY HELP PHONE 000
For further information on fire prevention and safety please go to:
      http://www.nswfb.nsw.gov.au
"Support Your Local Fire Brigade"