Stay safe this summer with Fireco: Prevention strategies and practical advice to prevent fires during the holiday season
The festive summer season is all about joy, laughter, and making memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re ‘decking the halls’ with Christmas lights or firing up the BBQ on a warm summer evening, the Kiwi holidays are packed with special moments – but in all the fun, it’s important to keep fire safety in mind to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Here are some must-know fire safety tips to help you enjoy a carefree and safe summer:
Fire & Electrical Safety for Christmas Decorations:
Decorating your home with Christmas lights is a tradition for many families, but before decking the halls, be sure to prioritise electrical safety.
- Check all decorations for faulty wiring, frayed cords, or damaged plugs – particularly Christmas lights, as these are a frequent cause of fire emergencies.
- Switch to LED lights, as these produce much less heat than traditional older incandescent bulbs which will reduce the risk of overheating and fire.
- Avoid overloading power outlets to prevent electrical fires, and don’t run extension cords underneath rugs or carpets where they could quickly overheat.
- Make sure your outdoor lights and decorations are designed for use outside, and are securely attached to withstand weather conditions.
- Keep curtains or paper decorations away from flammable materials like candles, reducing the risk of a fire hazard.
Safe BBQ Practices:
BBQs are an essential part of a classic kiwi summer, but backyard get-togethers can end up in flames due to lack of care.
- Before firing up the BBQ, make sure it’s clean and free of excess fat or grease buildup to prevent fires.
- Never leave the BBQ unattended when it’s in use.
- Strictly avoid using a BBQ indoors to prevent the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Avoid using BBQs or cooking after drinking alcohol.
- Conduct a soapy water test on your gas bottles to check for gas leaks before igniting the BBQ.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby the BBQ area to ensure safety.
Campfire Caution:
There’s nothing like heading out to the beach or bush for a camping adventure – but if you’re planning a campfire, always check regional regulations and the rules of your campground before you light to for compliance, and check whether a permit is required. Fire Emergency NZ’s website is always a great source of info when it comes to rules around fires, so be sure to check that you’re good to go, especially in summer when high temperatures and dry conditions put fire risks in the danger zone. If you are approved to light a fire, then:
- Be sure to completely extinguish fires and embers after use, and never bury them as they may reignite.
- Be cautious of the surroundings and choose a safe location for a campfire, away from flammable materials like leaves and dry grass.
- Bring fire safety equipment to prevent emergencies – Fireco’s summer safety package is ideal for peace of mind during camping adventures.
Home Escape Plan:
If you’re heading to a bach or b&b for a holiday getaway, consider how you and your family would escape from unfamiliar accommodation in the event of a fire. Check that there’s working smoke detectors throughout your accommodation. Familiarise yourself with the location and operation of fire extinguishers and fire blankets, keeping them easily accessible in case of a fire emergency. Check Fire Emergency NZ for helpful resources on planning escape routes and other safety tips.
Guest Safety Awareness:
Family gatherings are always a special part of the holidays but be sure to discuss fire escape plans with guests, especially in crowded holiday scenarios. Clear exits of potential obstructions to ensure a quick and safe evacuation in case of emergency.
Sleeping Area Safety:
Got a sleep out or caravan setup for the holidays? Be sure to install long-life photoelectric smoke alarms in or near all sleeping areas to provide early warning in case of a fire. Because smoke cannot be detected while asleep, these alarms are vital for safety.
Don’t let a fire emergency dampen the mood this festive season, and prioritise the safety of your loved ones and home. From checking decorations to practicing fire escape plans, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping everyone safe during the holidays and beyond.
