The Rural Fire Service recommend several tasks to help keep householders fire safe this winter. Most importantly don’t fight the fire – get out and stay out and dial ‘000’ immediately.

Fireplaces and chimneys

• Have your chimney serviced prior to using it by a qualified tradesperson.
• Purchase a fire screen if you do not own one. Fire screens should always be placed in front of fireplaces when in use.
• Ensure your wood pile sits at least a metre away from the fireplace.
• Choose a safe place to store matches and lighters where children cannot reach and that is at least a metre away.

Heaters

• Check your electric and gas heaters before you use them. If you suspect a fault have the item checked by a qualified repairer or replaced.
• Check all cords for fraying and damage. Plug heaters directly into wall sockets only. 
• Do not overload power boards. 
• Ensure everything is kept a metre from the heater. 
• Install any new heaters and use as per manufacturer’s instructions.
• Check your portable outdoor heaters before use and have serviced or replaced if required. Ensure that the area where you plan to use them is level, well-ventilated and away from awnings and other combustible materials. 
• NEVER use any outdoor heating or cooking equipment inside your home including those that use ‘heat beads’ or LPG as a fuel source. This type of equipment is not suitable for indoor use and can lead to a build-up of lethal gases which could be deadly. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations before use.

Electric Blankets

• Test your electric blanket before use by laying it on top of your bed, feeling the internal wires for any abnormalities and inspecting cords/controls for damage.
• Turn it on for 5 minutes and then feel for any uneven hot spots. 
• If you notice any of the above the electric blanket should be replaced.
• Electric blankets are not designed to be used while sleeping. Consider adding additional bedding to keep warm if needed.

Wheat bags 

• Check your wheat bags for signs of wear and tear or scorching. 
• Replace if needed. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when heating, using, and storing. 
• Wheat bags can easily ignite or burn if overheated and need to completely cool on a non-combustible surface before storing.
•  They are only designed to be applied directly to the body and should never be used in bed or while sleeping.

Rowlins Road Gerringong

How you might be warned about a storm

Severe Weather Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to alert communities to the threat of severe weather.   These warnings are provided to media outlets and are also available on the BOM website – www.bom.gov.au   or by using the associated apps on your devices. When a warning is issued for your area (but before the storm arrives), there are a few things you can do to help protect your family and property:

• Move indoors, bringing children and pets with you.
• Have your emergency kit handy in case you lose power or need to leave.
• Park your car under secure cover and away from hail, trees, power lines and drains.
• Secure or put away items from around the house, yard, or balcony that could blow around in strong winds.
• Check to see if your neighbours are aware of the warning.
• When flash flooding is likely, leaving low-lying homes and businesses well before flash flooding begins (evacuation) is the best action to take, but only if it is safe to do so. If you are trapped by rising floodwater, seek refuge in the highest part of a sturdy building. Stay there and call '000' (triple zero) if you need to be rescued.
• DO NOT drive through flooded waters.
• Listen to your local radio station and other media for information, updates, and advice; and
• Unplug and avoid using electrical equipment connected to mains power, landline phones and modems.

Most importantly always remember in an emergency If you see a fire without a fire truck in attendance, please call Triple Zero (000) and if you are deaf or have a speech or hearing impairment, call 106.