The Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Phil Koperberg has
issued an urgent warning to rural communities and
farm holders after the
discovery of two deceased people yesterday on a property 60km south of
Bathurst. The couple had been overcome by toxic fumes as a result of a
small electrical fire. In the last month the RFS has attended almost 100
structure fires in regional NSW and there have been 6 fatalities as a
result of three of those fires.
"It is imperative that
home owners in rural communities and those living
on remote properties take every available step to protect them and their
families from fire. A working smoke alarm must be installed and an
evacuation plan should be known and rehearsed by all family members.
Electrical and heating devices should be checked and if possible turned
off overnight," said the Commissioner.
"The tragic deaths of 2 children and 4 adults over the last month have
necessitated a warning message such as this. Smoke from a house fire is
extremely toxic. It is rarely the case that people are killed by contact
with flame. That's why it is essential to have a smoke alarm installed
so that adequate warning can be given for you and your family to get out
of the house. This is even more important when homes are remote and not
visible by neighbours."
"Having a smoke alarm is only the one part of protecting your family.
You should have a clear evacuation plan for your
home and all persons in
the
home should know what to do and where to meet outside if a fire
should occur. This evacuation plan should be rehearsed especially if
there are
young children in the family."
"All electrical, gas, oil, or combustion type heaters should be checked
and cleaned. If possible these devices should be turned of overnight or
at least be checked to ensure there is no combustible material nearby.
Electric blankets and waterbed heaters should be inspected and ensure
power outlets throughout the house are not overloaded."
These simple steps could make a difference if a fire was to occur. As
always more information can be found by contacting your local fire
station, RFS Fire Control Centre or visit the RFS website at
www.rfs.nsw.gv.au or NSW Fire Brigade website at www.fire.nsw.gov.au.