COLD SNAP A FRESH REMINDER FOR WINTER FIRE SAFETY

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell’s urged all Queenslanders to be aware of fire dangers during winter with the recent cold snap set to continue over the weekend.

“Winter is the busiest time for our firefighters,” Mr Purcell said.

“The risk of house fires increase during the colder months, which is highlighted by the terrible statistic that 95 per cent of all fire related deaths occur between May and September.

“After the colder weather of the past few days, I’m sure many residents are reaching into the back of their cupboard for their heater or electric blanket. That’s understandable, but I strongly encourage all Queenslanders to check and double-check their homes for any fire dangers.”

Mr Purcell said homeowners and tenants can reduce the threat of fires at home by undertaking some simple precautions.

These include:

·Ensuring smoke alarms are positioned properly and in good working order. (Smoke alarms will be compulsory in all Queensland residences from 1 July).

·Ensuring that all electrical appliances – especially electric blankets and heaters placed in storage or out-of-use over summer – are checked for damaged cords and safe function.

·Not using heaters as drying racks for clothes, towels, linen or bedding.

·Not overloading power points.

·Turning off heaters and clothes dryers when leaving home – even for brief times.

·Not sleeping with electric blankets turned on.

·Never leaving an open fire unattended, always have a fire screen, and ensure chimneys are properly maintained.

·Ensure everyone in the household is aware of a fire evacuation plan.

Mr Purcell also urged people to watch out for the fire safety of others over winter including family members, neighbours and friends, especially the elderly, sick or those affected by alcohol or drugs.

“Too many preventable tragedies occur each winter because people do not take adequate care to prevent fires. These precautions will go a long way to ensuring the safety and wellbeing at home,” he said.

Mr Purcell encouraged householders to take advantage of the Safehome program offered by the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service where fire-fighters conduct a home fire safety inspection and give advice on eliminating hazards.

Information about Safehome can be found at www.fire.qld.gov.au or by telephoning 1300 369 003.

Media contact: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571.

Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976