The captain of the Falcon Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) has reminded Mandurah locals to check their fire alarm batteries and ensure their chimneys are cleaned as the weather starts cooling down.
Falcon VFRS captain Kim Glass said as autumn progressed and we move towards winter, it was an ideal time to undertake some checks.
"Whilst the weather is still warm, it will begin to get cool quickly - and with that change, people will start to use indoor heaters and their chimneys," he said.
"Whilst overall this isn't a major concern, it does increase the risk of house fires, so it's really important to make sure that chimneys have been cleaned and fire alarms are working as intended."
Falcon volunteers suggest there are a number of ways that members of the community can keep safe this season, including:
- Keep items at least one metre away from heaters.
- Never leave heaters turned on in bedrooms, especially children's bedrooms.
- Check heaters, fireplace brickwork, chimneys and flue before lighting first fires of the year.
- Don't leave cooking unattended.
- Have a fire escape plan in case of an emergency.
- Use fresh batteries in fire alarms to prevent faults.
Community members who have questions about fire safety are encouraged to attend two meetings being held in Falcon to raise awareness over the next two months.
Smoke Alarm Day is being held at the Miami Plaza Shopping Centre on Saturday, March 30 from 11am - 1pm. Falcon VFRS will also host an open day on Saturday, May 4 from 11am - 2.30pm, which will take place at the station.
For further information, go to www.dfes.wa.gov.au or visit the group's Facebook page.
