Winter Fire Safety

The Hon. T.T. NGO (15:11): My question is to the Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services. Can the minister update the council about winter fire safety?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (15:11): I thank the honourable member for his question. We all think it will never happen to us, that a house fire is something that happens to someone else and somewhere else, but the reality is that house fires can and do happen and the cooler months are when the risk is greatest. As winter sets in, we start pulling out our heaters, lighting the fireplace and switching on electric blankets. It is a comforting routine, but it is also the perfect time for the winter safety check. The best way to protect your home, your family and your future is to be prepared.

Already this year, MFS and the CFS crews have responded to 11 house fires linked to heaters and fireplaces. That is up from eight at this time last year and is a worrying trend and a timely reminder. Fatal house fires are more likely in winter, especially while people are sleeping. It can take just minutes for a fire to spread, and it is often not the flames but the smoke that kills. That is why in this year's state budget we have delivered funding to support specialised structural fire training for CFS volunteers because we know that more and more of their call-outs are not just rural or grass fires; they are responding to structure fires too. This funding helps ensure that they have the training and tools they need to respond safely and effectively no matter where the fire is.

Fire safety does not just start with a truck and a siren; it starts at home. So we are making a simple ask of every household and everyone here in the chamber to check your smoke alarm; inspect your heaters, electric blankets and fireplaces before switching them on; keep anything flammable, especially clothing and bedding, well clear of your fireplace; and never leave heaters running unattended. We know these things, but too often life gets busy and the simple checks get forgotten. We think it will not happen to us, but prevention is the best protection, so please take the time to do your winter checks, stay warm and, most importantly, stay safe.