Fire Safety Checklist

Home Fire Safety Checklist

Kate, a firefighter with Fire and Rescue NSW, and Tony, her command liaison officer, walk through a home fire-safety checklist. They note that fires increase in winter, largely because people use more heating equipment and do more cooking.

Check smoke alarms

• Test each alarm using its test button.
• Vacuum it to remove dust or insects.
• Replace it if it does not work or is more than 10 years old.

Make and practise an escape plan

• Identify more than one way out of each room where possible, including windows as backup exits.
• Plan routes that avoid passing the fire.
• Choose an outdoor meeting place where everyone can gather and call Triple Zero (000).
• Practise the plan with everyone in the household, including pets.
• If there is a fire: get out, stay out, and call Triple Zero. Never go back inside.

Use fireplaces safely

• Clean the fireplace before using it for the season.
• Keep firewood and other combustible items at least one metre away.
• Keep matches and lighters away from small children.
• Use a fire screen whenever the fire is burning.

Check heaters

• Inspect heaters and cords for damage before use.
• Plug heaters directly into a wall socket.
• Test the heater before relying on it.
• If something seems wrong, contact an electrician or replace the heater.
• Keep objects at least one metre away, since nearby items can ignite.

Inspect electric blankets before use

• Roll the blanket for storage rather than folding it, which can damage internal wires.
• Spread it out and check the blanket and cords for damage or irregularities.
• Run it for five minutes, then feel for hot spots.
• If you suspect a fault, discard it and get a replacement.

Use wheat bags carefully

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions; overheating can cause fires or serious burns.
• Do not use one in bed.
• Discard it if it shows wear, tears, or scorch marks.

Stay attentive while cooking

Keep watching food while it cooks. Kate warns that more than half of home fires start in the kitchen, with unattended cooking a major cause.

Speakers and Sources

• Kate — Firefighter with Fire and Rescue New South Wales; presents and demonstrates the checklist.
• Tony — Kate’s command liaison officer; explains and advises on the safety checks.
• Fire and Rescue New South Wales — The organization whose website is referenced for downloading a checklist and escape-plan grid.