Fire safety message getting through

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts has congratulated Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) personnel on their continued commitment to the fire safety message.

Mr Roberts said survey data had revealed 96.2% of households now had at least one smoke alarm fitted, up almost 10% from November 2006.

This increase can be attributed to the State Government’s introduction of legislation last July that made it compulsory for all Queensland residences to have a working smoke alarm.

"These figures are great to see, and are a tribute to the efforts of the QFRS to keep Queenslanders safe," Mr Roberts said.

"In Queensland, 78% of all home fire deaths occur in houses without smoke alarms, so the increase in compliance means lives are being saved."

Mr Roberts said the skill and professionalism of the QFRS is also saving Queenslanders money.

In the 2006-07 financial year, the average loss in dollars from a structural fire in Queensland was $2,000, continuing its decline from $2,283 in 2003-04.

"When QFRS crews attend structural fires the first priority is to ensure all occupants are removed safely from the premises, but every effort is also made to protect the structure itself.

"In 2006-07, the QFRS responded to 50% of call-outs in 6.9 minutes. Overall the QFRS responded to 97.5% of call-outs under the target of 14 minutes."

"Property loss in Queensland was also the lowest of any Australian state at just $23 per person, down from $29 last year."

Mr Roberts commissioned a review into the QFRS last December to ensure resources are maximised on the frontline.

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