Fire

Fire doesn't always happen when you are home - and the last thing you need when coming home from a holiday is the charred remains of your home. By taking some simple precautions before going away, not only will your holiday be safe, but so will your home.

Christmas Holidays

• When hanging fairy lights around your house check the wiring thoroughly to ensure that it isn't frayed or worn.
• Never overload powerboards - use a power boaard with a built in power overload and surge protector. 
• Never piggyback double adaptors.
• Always follow the manufacturers instructions for the correct use of decorative lights.
• Keep lights away from flammable items such as paper or curtains.
• Keep candles away from flammable items and always put them out before leaving the room.
• Switch off Christmas tree lights and decorative lights before going out or to bed.

Caravanning and Camping

• The fire extinguisher should be located near the exit where it is accessible and where escape is also an option.
• The fire extinguisher should be the dry chemical powder portable type which has a minimum rating of 1A:5B:(E).
• Install a smoke alarm fitted with a ‘hush' button close to the beds in addition to a fire extinguisher and fire blanket.
• When towing your caravan make sure that any pilot lights have been switched off.
• At camp sites and caravan parks, make sure you know where the safety equipment is located.
• Make sure that all electrical and gas equipment has been properly tested and is in good working order.
• All gas cylinders on your caravan should be external, properly secured with valves facing away from the van. 
• Have a portable radio and so that you can be properly informed of any bush fire warnings in your area.
• Never cook or smoke in tents.
• Locate any campfire away from any tents and downwind.
• Clear an area around your fire of any debris and leaves so that, if any embers escape, the chance of starting a fire is minimised.
• Make sure that the fire is out completely before going to sleep.
• When you first get to a campsite, look for a safe refuge in the event of a bush fire.

Boat Fire Safety

• Before starting the engine on your boat, make sure you check all fuel lines for leaks.
• Refuel your portable tanks on shore and never in your boat. 
• When filling tanks, and especially your main fuel tank, make sure any spillage is wiped up immediately.
• When refuelling make sure the engine is cold and any sources of ignition are completely removed.
• If your boat has a petrol driven inboard, make sure the bilge blowers are on before starting the engine.
• Ensure all fuel compartments have adequate ventilation.
• Always carry a fire extinguisher, secure it somewhere easily accessible and know how to use it.
• Before setting out make sure you have emergency flares, which have not passed their use-by date and are easily accessed. 
• Make sure there are enough lifejackets for everyone on your boat and they know how to use them.
• If you must use a stove for cooking on-board make sure it is marine approved and the gas is turned off at the cylinder after use.
• Make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit and it can be easily accessed.
• Make sure you have a marine radio and properly inform your local marine rescue where you are going and your expected time of arrival back at the boat ramp or pen.
• Remember to radio again when you return or if you change your location/expected time of arrival.

Boat Fire

• Stop the boat immediately to prevent the flames quickly spreading.
• Have everyone on the boat put on their lifejackets if they haven't already - lifejackets should be worn all the time when on a boat, especially children.
• If safe to do so, close all hatches and vents to slow the progress of the fire.
• Direct your extinguisher at the base of the flames but only fight the fire if it safe to do so.
• Never allow the fire to get between you and your exit.
• If you need to abandon your boat because the flames have become too big, make sure you alert authorities by using your marine radio and/or using a flare.
• All passengers should remain together and make sure everyone is accounted for, before swimming clear of the boat.
• Never try to get back onto the boat while the fire is still burning.

Car Fire

• Stop the engine and switch off the ignition
• Evacuate the vehicle immediately, close all the doors (slowing the progress of the fire) and keep clear of the immediate area.
• Call Emergency Services on 000.
• If your vehicle is LPG powered and you think it is safe enough, switch off the main supply valve (make sure you know where it is before attempting this).
• If you have an extinguisher, try to put out the fire using extreme caution.
• If the fire is under the bonnet, operate the bonnet release only - never lift the bonnet as the sudden rush of air can cause the fire the gain intensity very quickly. Empty the contents of the extinguisher through the gap in short bursts.
• If the fire is in the cabin of the vehicle empty the contents of the fire extinguisher into the vehicle before closing the door.
• After the fire has been put out, never attempt to drive your car.

Bush Fire 

• Keep your vehicle windows wound up.
• Turn your headlights on so others can see you.
• Switch your heater/air conditioner to re-circulate so smoke won't enter your car.
• If you need to take refuge in your car from the fire for whatever reason:
  • If possible park on a golf course, oval or clear roadway away from all long grass or shrubs.
  • Leave your headlights and hazard lights on while keeping the engine running.
  • Close all windows and vents.
  • If you wait for the fire front to pass lie down on the floor of your car as low as possible and cover yourself with a woollen blanket. It will get very hot but the blanket will protect you from radiant heat.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Operate the windscreen wipers from time to time to dislodge any embers.
  • Do not get out of the vehicle or open the windows unless the fire front has passed.
  • Try not to panic.