WHAT TO DO WHEN FIRE THREATENS . . .



Devastating fire often occur in homes throughout Australia resulting in the loss of property
or worse the loss of life.

 
 It is vitally important that you educate yourself and your children about the many dangers of fires and what to do in the event
of a emergency or life threatening situation involving a fire.

Develop an easy to follow home escape plan that is totally understood by all family members . . . remember this will help protect your family and could save a life.

Discuss your home escape plan with all family members - be certain your children understand.
When possible try and have two exits from every room in your house.
Be sure your windows all open easily.
Decide on an agreed meeting place outside the house.
Practise your family's escape plan on a regular basis.

SPECIFIC FACTORS AFFECTING FIRE DANGER LEVEL

The major factors of fire danger levels are:

1.Fuels    
Fuels include grasses,bushes,leaves,twigs,ferns and trees. The danger level of these fuels is directly related to the moisture levels in the fuels. After recent rain the moisture level in many ground fuels is not sufficient to prevent ignition.Fuels in direct sunlight will dry out more than fuels in shaded areas and can be up to 30°c hotter.The higher the temperature of fuels the more likely they are to ignite and rapidly spread.

2.Topography
Basically the steeper the grade the greater the fire danger. Fire can move very quickly uphill and can easily ignite homes situated on slopes,hill tops or ridges.

 3.Weather
The weather is the only factor in which we have no control. Long and dry heatwaves can easily dry out and heat up ground fuels. High wind will have the effect of greatly increasing both the speed and intensity of the fire. Many small fires have accelerated into major disasters in a very short time.

Safety Precautions for Home Owners

Eliminate any danger spots around your home.
Landscape your property using fire resistant plants.
Prepare in advance for the threat of a home or bush fire.

. . . Recommended Home Safety Kit

Fire Extinguisher
Fire Blanket
Smoke Detector

Fire extinguishers should be checked on a regular basis.
     The recommended extinguisher is a red bottle with a black band or a Carbon Dioxide based extinguisher.
An approved fire blanket stored in a convenient easy to access place.
 Approved Smoke Detectors positioned in several locations throughout your house.
     (e.g.Loungerooms,Hallways and Bedrooms)


It's the smoke from a fire that kills most people.
A smoke alarm in your house could save your life!
Smoke Alarms are battery operated and will make a loud noise to wake you up in there is smoke around.
Check the batteries in your Smoke Alarms twice a year.
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"