26 September 2023

Canberrans light way with fire safety

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As the final month of winter sets in, Canberrans are being praised for their fire safety vigilance over the past two months.

Commissioner for the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ACTESA), Georgeina Whelan said the latest statistics showed Canberrans were listening to safety messages and taking action within the home to reduce fire risks.

“Each year, fires in the kitchen are our leading type of house fire, so we emphasise the importance of Don’t stop looking while you are cooking through our community education campaign,” Commissioner Whelan said.

“This year, we have seen a decrease in the number of fires ACT Fire & Rescue (ACTF&R) have responded to in relation to fires that started in the kitchen, which is surprising as people are spending more time at home,” she said.

Commissioner Whelan said that throughout the final month of ACTF&R’s house-fire safety campaign, firefighters would focus their efforts on ensuring kitchen fire statistics did not creep back up.

Acting Chief Officer for ACTF&R, Matthew Mavity urged Canberrans not to become complacent about fire safety this month.

“With a decrease in kitchen fires so far this winter, we challenge Canberrans to make the month of August a new record of zero kitchen fires,” Acting Chief Officer Mavity said.

He reminded people that kitchen fires could happen anytime of the year and understanding how to reduce fire risks was key to keeping themselves and their families safe.

Further information on home fire safety can be accessed at this PS News link.

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