“Firefighters are well aware of the impact of cold weather on our communities as we see a spike in the number of fires in the home,” Yass Fire and Rescue NSW Deputy Captain Scott Lang said.

“Our job is to protect life and property, which is why our firefighters have been out and about over the last week talking with people about what they can do to reduce the risk of a fire in their home.

Nearly half of all home fires and most fire-related injuries occur in kitchens, mainly between 6pm and 7pm. Mr Lang said the most important thing to remember is that fires in winter are just as common as ones during summer.

“But we also need to make people aware about the associated risks involved with heaters, electric blankets and the improper use of outdoor cooking and heating appliances for indoor heating purposes,” he said said.

The Yass firies have five life-saving messages for householders ; keep looking when cooking, don’t bring outdoor heating and cooking equipment indoors. This can lead to the build-up of carbon monoxide, which could be fatal, keep clothing and other flammable materials at least one metre from your heater and ensure you have a working smoke alarm and a practised home escape plan.

“We hope this initiative will go a long way to reducing the ongoing risk that many people unknowingly expose their families and themselves to during the current cold snap”.

If a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).