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.

Call emergency services as soon as you are out and safe. Ask for FIRE.

Clearly state your address and let the operator know it anyone is still inside or has not made it to the safe meeting place.

Emergency call 111 Emergency text 111

Hazardous substances on farms

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Hazardous substances are common on farms. Here are some guidelines that will help ensure those substances are handled safely to avoid injury or illness.

Hazardous substances are common on farms. It's important to ensure those substances are handled safely to avoid injury or illness.

The WorkSafe New Zealand website has comprehensive information about managing hazardous substances on farms. Some of these include:

  • Flammable chemicals and fuels must be stored at least 6 metres from combustible materials. They must also be kept at least 20 metres from habitable buildings, like houses or sleepouts.
  • Hazardous substances must be marked with warning signs. These are essential not just for workers and visitors on the farm, but also for fire fighters who are trained to recognise hazardous substances signage and respond accordingly.
  • If you store large amounts of flammable or oxidising substances on your farm, you may need a location test certificate.
  • You may also need a documented procedure for dealing with hazardous substances emergencies, including fire. This will depend on the amount and type of chemicals you store. This plan will need to account for the distance between your farm and the nearest fire station.

We recommend you have fire extinguishers available in any area where you store large amounts of hazardous and flammable chemicals. Train your staff to use the extinguishers safely.

Related content

Visit the Hazardous Substances section of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website for information on: