Released 01/06/2021
With the arrival of winter, Canberrans are being informed about how to prevent a home fire and what to do if a fire starts.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said now was the time for residents to think about the fire risks within their home and make sure they know what to do if a fire starts.
“Fire caused by heaters and dryers increased in the ACT in 2020 and kitchen fires continue to be the leading cause of home fires every winter,” Minister Gentleman said.
“ACT Fire and Rescue is working with the Canberra community to reduce the risk of heater, dryer and kitchen fires in the home and educating them on how to safely respond if threatened by a fire.
“Most of these fires are preventable. We are reminding the Canberra community to keep flammable materials at least one metre from a heater, to regularly clean the lint filter in your dryer, and not to leave cooking unattended.”
ACT Fire & Rescue A/g Chief Officer Matthew Mavity said with fire spread rates increasing due to open plan living, its important residents understand how to safely extinguish a small fire.
“Understanding what actions to take if a fire was to start in your home, like using a fire blanket or extinguisher, can reduce the amount of damage sustained,” A/g Chief Officer Mavity said.
“This winter, we will be educating the Canberra community on the simple actions they can take to ensure the safety of themselves, loved ones and their property.
“Of course, if a fire does take hold in your home, the safest thing to do is to get out and call triple zero (000).”
The community safety campaign will be delivered across the ACT Emergency Services Agency website and social media channels.
For more information and fire safety tips, including resources for kids, visit www.esa.act.gov.au.
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Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases