Fireco's Summer Fire Safety Tips
The festive season is a time for joy, laughter, and creating lasting memories with family and friends. From twinkling Christmas decorations to sizzling BBQs, the kiwi holiday season is filled with special moments.
However, amidst the festivities, it’s crucial to prioritise fire safety to ensure that everyone can enjoy the holidays without putting themselves, their loved ones, or their possessions at risk. Fireco has essential fire safety tips for the festive season, covering everything from Christmas decorations to BBQs and campfires.
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.
Avoid overloading power outlets to prevent electrical fires.
Keep curtains or paper decorations away from flammable materials like candles, reducing the risk of a fire hazard.
BBQ Safety:
BBQs are an essential part of a classic kiwi summer, but too often backyard get-togethers end up in flames due to lack of care.
Before firing up the BBQ, ensure it’s free of excess fat or grease buildup to prevent flare-ups.
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 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 ensure compliance and check whether a permit is required.
Be sure to completely extinguish fires and embers after use; 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.
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 operation of fire extinguishers and fire blankets, keeping them easily accessible in case of a fire emergency.
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 all sleeping areas to provide early warning in case of a fire.
Because smoke cannot be detected while asleep, these alarms become crucial for ensuring everyone’s safety.
Don’t let a fire emergency dampen the mood this festive season, and prioritise the safety of your loved ones and home. By following our simple fire safety tips, your holidays can be a time of joy and celebration without the added worry of potential fire hazards. From checking decorations to practicing fire escape plans, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping everyone safe during the most wonderful time of the year. Check the NZ Fire Emergency website here for helpful resources on planning escape routes and other safety tips.
Celebrate safely and have a happy, fire-free festive season with Fireco!
