Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to take house fire safety seriously.

Seventeen people have died in preventable residential fires over the past year—marking the worst toll in a decade.

With cooler weather increasing the use of heaters and electric blankets, Risk Reduction and Investigations Manager Peter Gallagher says it's time for every household to make fire safety a priority.

“A fire can be un-survivable within just three minutes,” he said. “

It’s crucial to have working smoke alarms in the right places.”

Many of the recent fatal fires had smoke alarms installed, but not in the rooms where fires started.

Gallagher stresses the need for alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas—including sleepouts and caravans.

For Coasties, this hits close to home.

Many local homes have older wiring, rely on plug-in heaters, or include separate sleepouts, which increases the need for a proper escape plan.

A good three-step escape plan includes:

• Working smoke alarms in every key area
• A primary and alternative exit
• A safe meeting point outside

Gallagher also reminded people to keep clothing and bedding at least a metre away from heaters, check electric blankets for hot spots, and never use outdoor equipment to heat your home.

“Take the time this weekend to put some of these simple steps in place. They can save lives.”

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