Stay safe during winter polar snap - Video - Thredbo
Published: 24 Aug 2022 10:08am
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is urging the public not to take any risks when staying warm during this week's winter cold snap.
Snow and black ice have cut off some roads in the Blue Mountains whilst parts of NSW around the ACT are expected to reach temperatures of -4 today, with chill factors of -7.
FRNSW is reminding NSW residents to remain safe when warming up during the chilly weather.
One of the coldest places in NSW at present is Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains where FRNSW Captain Dave Milliken has an important message for the public.
https://vimeo.com/742435621/203032c49a [external link]
Ensure your home is fitted with working smoke alarms and never bring outside heaters, barbecues or heat beads inside your home for additional warmth.
They can generate carbon monoxide gas in the confined spaces and render people unconscious before causing death.
If you're having trouble replacing smoke alarms or their batteries, you can book a Home Safety Visit, where FRNSW crews can inspect your home to prevent fire and fit smoke alarms for you, free of charge. More information is available at: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=9316. [external link]
FRNSW advises the public to:
· Clean the lint filter from your clothes dryer after each use;
· Check and maintain smoke alarms once installed;
· Keep any drying clothes or anything flammable at least a metre from the heater;
· Clean and maintain any fireplaces;
· Do not use outdoor heating or cooking equipment inside your home;
· Check electric blankets are safe for use and never go to bed or leave home with your electric blanket on;
· Do not overheat wheat bags in the microwave;
· Do not overload power boards;
· Never leave cooking unattended;
· Always use candles under adult supervision and do not leave them unattended where possible;
· Ensure you have a ‘home fire escape plan” and practice it regularly with your family; and
· If a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).
This winter, keep you and your loved ones safe by using the Get Ready for Winter checklist.
Updated: 24 Aug 2022 11:28am
Related safety topics
The leading cause of home fires in NSW is leaving cooking unattended.
It“s the law to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home.
Having a home escape plan and a working smoke alarm increases your chances of getting out safely.
Learn how to prevent fires from heaters and open fires.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]