FIRE and Rescue NSW, with the first cold front due to hit region, urges people to follow its safety checklist before starting a woodfire or turning on a heater.
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"Every winter we see a large rise in the number of fires and this is mostly due to the increase of heating equipment and extra cooking " Kate from Fire and Rescue NSW's Community Engagement Unit said.
"Jump on our website [here] download our checklist which will help you prepare for the cooler months this year."
Smoke alarms are the first thing on the checklist.
"Smoke alarms are the only that is going to wake you in the event of a fire in you home," Tony from the Community Engagement Unit explained.
Many people would be about to light there wood fires for the first time this season and Fire and Rescue NSW offers more advice.
"Remember to clean you fireplace before using it this year and keep you firewood and any other combustibles a least a metre away," Tony said.
Safety advice for fireplaces and chimneys
- Ensure your flues and chimneys are regularly cleaned. Place a fire screen in front of open fires to protect your family.
- Have your chimney serviced prior to using it by a qualified tradesperson.
- Purchase a fire screen if you do not own one. Fire screens should always be placed in front of fireplaces when in use.
- Ensure your wood pile sits at least a metre away from the fireplace.
- Choose a safe place to store matches and lighters where children cannot reach and that is at least a metre away from the fireplace.
Heaters
- Ensure everything is kept a metre from the heater.
- Check your electric and gas heaters before you use them. If you suspect a fault have the item checked by a qualified repairer or replaced. Check all cords for fraying and damage. Plug heaters directly into wall sockets only.
- Do not overload powerboards.
- Ensure everything is kept a metre from the heater.
- Install any new heaters and use as per manufacturer's instructions.
- Check your portable outdoor heaters before use and have serviced or replaced if required. Ensure that the area where you plan to use them is level, well ventilated and away from awnings and other combustible materials.
- Never use any outdoor heating or cooking equipment inside your home including those that use 'heat beads' or LPG as a fuel source. This type of equipment is not suitable for indoor use and can lead to a build up of lethal gases which could be deadly. Check the manufacturer's recommendations before use.
Electric blankets
- Folding your electric blanket can cause damage. Always roll it for storage, and check for any damage before use.
- Test your electric blanket before use by laying it on top of your bed, feeling the internal wires for any abnormalities and inspecting cords/controls for damage. Turn it on for 5 minutes and then feel for any uneven hot spots. If you notice any of the above the electric blanket should be replaced.
- Ready to pack your electric blanket away? Roll it for storage, folding can cause damage.
So say warm but also stay safe.
