Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist
  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Batteries and electronics

Chances are, you've got dozens of battery-powered devices and electrical appliances scattered around your home. Each of these devices carries a fire safety risk. Here are some tips for using appliances safely.

On this page

Batteries, chargers & multi-plugs

Heat-generating devices include anything that produces heat when in use, even small appliances like hairdryers and toasters.

  • Remember if it heats or cools, it plugs into the walls.
  • Chargers and cords are not damaged, modified or used with incompatible devices.
  • Devices with lithium batteries are not used or charged after being dropped of damaged.
  • Electrical cords aren’t frayed, damaged or modified.
  • Electrical cords aren't coiled, or underneath carpet or bedding.
  • Charging takes place on a hard, flat surface.

Lithium-ion batteries

These days, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are everywhere, from e-bikes and e-scooters to vapes and power tools. They are light, compact, and long-lasting, but can be a fire hazard if they are damaged, mishandled, or improperly disposed of.

Appliances

Chances are, you've got dozens of appliances scattered around your home. Each of these devices carries a fire safety risk. Here are some tips for using appliances safely.

  • Turn off appliances when not in use. If practical, unplug them at the wall as well.
  • Keep all electrical appliances away from water.
  • When buying second hand appliances, ensure they've been tested by a licensed electrician or gas fitter, and have been certified as safe.
  • Do not place fans, heaters, televisions or other electrical equipment in areas without good airflow, as they may overheat.
  • If you're worried about the conditions of any appliances (like electric blankets, heaters, air conditioners or fans), have them checked by a qualified electrician.

Leads and cords

  • Don't overload multi-boards. At most, plug in one appliance per wall or multi-board socket.
  • Never plug an adaptor or multi-board into another adaptor or multi-board.
  • Make sure leads and cords are in good condition and not frayed.
  • Never put extension cords under carpets or mats, and avoid using them while they are tightly coiled.
  • Ensure furniture does not rest on top of electrical leads.
  • Remember that extension cords are not designed to be permanent replacements to your home's internal wiring.