Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade shares winter fire safety tips

With winter approaching, Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade's new fire chief has used the brigade's debut column in the Katikati News to urge local residents to get their homes and properties ready for the colder months. The chief stressed the importance of having chimneys professionally cleaned before lighting fires this season — a task that should be carried out every 12 months.

Residents are also reminded to keep clothing and other items at least one metre away from any heat source, to use a fireguard around open fires at all times, and to store matches and lighters well out of children's reach. Hot ashes must be emptied into a metal bin, covered with water, and left to cool before disposal.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommends fitting smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and living area, with a heat alarm as an option for kitchens, laundries, bathrooms, and garages. Monthly testing of every alarm is encouraged. Members of the public can request a free Home Fire Safety Visit from Fire and Emergency NZ via fireandemergency.nz. The brigade also has a new Facebook page — search 'Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade' — to keep the community updated on its work.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).