Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is encouraging Clarence Valley residents to ensure they have a home fire escape plan in place, enabling them to safely evacuate their residence in the event of an emergency.

Garry Reardon, Grafton Fire and Rescue 306 Station Captain, said having a home fire escape plan in conjunction with a working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of getting out safely.

“Every second counts (during an emergency),” he revealed.

“A home fire escape plan involves identifying escape routes from every room as well as a place to meet once everyone is safely outside.

“It is important that you know your home fire escape plan no matter where you are, and you familiarise yourself with the layout (of the property).

“This includes knowing all exits and safe paths to quickly evacuate if needed.”

FRNSW recommends all homeowners draw a floor plan of their property and clearly identify two ways out of each room.

It is also recommended home fire escape plans are discussed with every occupant of the dwelling, windows and screens can be easily opened from the interior to enable a fast exit, alternative exits are accessible for any resident with a disability, and a safe outside meeting place is established.

FRNSW strongly encourage everyone to practice their home fire escape plan at least twice a year.

Residents living in apartment complexes are also encouraged to learn and revise their buildings evacuation procedure and to leave immediately if they hear the fire alarm.

Lifts and elevators should never be used if a fire occurs and once outside residents are not to go back inside a burning building

“Without a home fire escape plan you are placing the lives of everybody in your home in jeopardy,” Captain Reardon stated.

“Plan your actions before a fire happens and give you and your family the extra seconds needed to escape alive.

“Home fire escape plans are especially important for people with reduced mobility and for children.

“Children can easily become disoriented, and they can waste precious minutes searching for parents and carers or escaping the wrong way and becoming trapped if a home fire escape plan is not in place.

“Parents and carers should show their children how to escape from each room and make sure they know where to meet once they are out of the house.

“Once you get out, stay out, and call Triple Zero (000).”

For further information please visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au