School holiday fire safety reminder

BEFORE the school holidays come to an end, Victorian fire services are encouraging the community to practice their home fire escape plan.

Everyone who lives in a home should know the quickest and safest way to escape from each room and know two exits from each room, whether it is a door or window.

Last year 18 people died due to preventable residential fires in the state and children, people aged 65 or older, smokers and people with a disability are more likely to lose their lives.

“If you live in a high-rise building, know where the fire exits are, always take the stairs, and know the building’s evacuation procedures,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.

“And if you have people in the family who will require assistance to evacuate, such as an elderly family member or young child, consider this in your plan.

“Kids are always looking for things to do during school holidays, so why not practice your home fire escape plan together?”

Materials are available on the CFA website to help create a plan.