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| Check your Hotspots |
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| Fire Equipment |
| Smoke Alarms |
| Safety Programs |
Death, injury and property loss from residential fires are a major concern throughout the year, but especially during the winter months when the number of house fires increases.
You’ll have a much greater chance of avoiding the devastating effects of fire if you take action now to reduce the risks in your home.
Kitchen stoves are a major fire hazard
Never leave cooking unattended
Keep stoves free from grease and fat build up
Keep the stove and toaster away from tea towels and curtains
Wear tight-fitting sleeves when cooking.
Ensure all switches are in good order. Wires should not be exposed and should always be insulated
Have all repairs done by a registered electrician. Don't attempt to do it yourself
Never overload power outlets. Multiple double adaptors and powerboards can overload powerpoints
Don't place extension leads under carpet or furniture
Ensure appliances are used in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications
Check electrical items are in good working order. Have them maintained and checked by a registered electrician if you are concerned, especially second-hand items
Have damaged plugs and leads replaced by a registered electrician
Turn off appliances at the power point when not in use
If a fire starts, turn off power immediately at power point or switchboard if safe to do so.
Never leave electric blankets on overnight or during the day - turn them on about 30 minutes before bedtime
Store electric blankets according to manufacturer's instruction
Do not place heavy objects on a working electric blanket. This includes pets
Don't sleep with electric blankets on.
Never smoke in bed
Embers can smoulder in bedding and burst into flame when you are asleep
Clean lint filter after each use
Allow dryer to complete cool-down cycle.
Turn off heating when you go to bed
Do not place clothing too close to heaters
Ensure heaters and flues are professionally installed and maintained
Check walls and floors are appropriately insulated from heat sources and that heaters are well distanced from combustible materials
Be careful where you place portable heaters
Place a screen in front of open fires
Never let a fire burn after you've gone to bed or left the house. Ensure ashes are cold before discarding
Never leave children unattended near open fires and heaters.
Keep candles away from curtains and other flammable materials
Always use on non-combustible surfaces
A review of structure fire statistics in Victoria has revealed that since the introduction of the Federal Government Home Insulation Program there has been an increase in the number of fires as a result of insulation material being placed directly on top of downlights and other electrical appliances in the roof space of houses.
Down lights, when correctly installed in accordance with the current wiring rules, DO NOT pose a problem
Insulation, whether it is the “blow in” type or batts when correctly installed, DOES NOT pose a problem
However, when insulation material is installed directly over downlights or other electrical equipment such as exhaust fans, central heating units, etc.., the risk of fire is greatly increased
Australian Standards require that insulation is kept clear of downlights for a distance of 200mm all round
Accredited insulation installers are required to comply with this rule
Always use a registered and qualified contractor to install insulation in the home
Ask the installer to check and confirm that correct barriers are fitted to downlights before placing insulation in the roof space
Never allow the insulation to be placed on top of downlights or other electrical equipment
Inspect all electrical appliances installed in the roof space, such as down lights and transformers, to ensure that they have a non flammable/mechanical barrier around them to prevent insulation or other material covering them. A good rule of thumb is a clearance of a hand span’s width is the minimum clearance requirement
Where possible, always use the best quality fittings and guards available
Following ANY maintenance or works in the roof space, ensure that all downlights, transformers and all other electrical and/or gas appliances are clear of insulation or any other materials
If you have recently had insulation installed under the Homeowner Insulation Program - Check Now - Do Not Delay.
You can reduce your risk of a house fire causing serious property damage or even serious injury or life loss by having a working smoke alarm, making a home escape plan and installing home fire safety equipment.
Find the Your Home Fire Safety brochure in the Home Safety page of the Publications section.
Winter is a high risk time for house fires, so taking care to Check Your Hotspots could save a life.
Download the Check Your HotSpots House (pdf 81k)
