Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has singled out Singleton to engage with its Safety Visits program with the aim of improving fire safety in 1,000 higher risk homes in the local area and 60,000 homes across NSW.
FRNSW Commissioner, Paul Baxter said the fire prevention and education program would see fire fighters visit homes to deliver critical fire safety advice and install working smoke alarms where they’re needed most.
“Winter is the worst time of year for home fires, with more fires occurring in bedrooms and lounge rooms due to heaters, electric blankets and other electrical devices,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“Our fire fighters have already responded to more than 450 residential fires this winter, including a number of deadly fires, and we don’t want these numbers to continue climbing.”
He said the Safety Visits program drew on historical data about where and why fires occurred.
“Like the whole community, our fire fighters were deeply affected by last month’s tragic house fire in Singleton,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“We want to show our support for these local fire fighters.”
Minister for Emergency Services, David Elliott urged residents to support the Safety Visits program as it rolls out to 60,000 homes in higher risk areas over the next 12 months.
More information about the FRNSW Safety Visits program can be accessed at this PS News link.
