Every year an average of five people die in house fires and more than 1,200 fires start in the home. Lighters, matches and candles are a common cause of fires in the home.
These fires cause thousands of dollars damage and have contributed to the death and injury of a number of people – including children. Most of these fires are accidental and preventable. Leaving late can be deadly.
Bushfires can start suddenly so you need to be prepared to act even if you do not get a warning. Most people wait to be told what to do and decide to leave when it is already too late. Not receiving a warning does not mean there is no threat. It is important to make a decision before a bushfire arrives. Planning to leave early is your safest option. Do not wait and see ‘what happens’. During extreme hot weather conditions, be prepared and be ready to leave early by:
If you see signs of a bushfire, act immediately for your own safety. Use the Leaving for a Safer Place checklist to develop your Bushfire Survival Plan. (Documents on external DFES website). For more information:
Documents also available from the CRC's Resources webpage, under the Fire Safety heading or direct links below : Leaving for a Safer Place checklist. Bushfire Survival Plan. Print them and fill them out and be ready to leave early. Further information about the JAFFA program and referrals can be found on the DFES website. http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/educationandheritage/childrenandfamilies/Pages/jaffaprogram.aspx Download brochure here.
Arson accounted for more than half of all bushfires recorded by DFES in the first six weeks of 2015. Wilful and deliberate lighting of fires causes significant damage to people, property, flora and fauna in Western Australia each year.
On 16 December 2009 the Bush Fires Act (1954) and the Criminal Code were amended to increase penalties and clarify the definition of property regarding charges involving arson. Property now means personal or real estate property including crown land and includes the bush and fauna. Crime Stoppers can be contacted on 1800 333 000 or reports can be completed online. https://www.crimestopperswa.com.au/make-a-report Further information can be found on the DFES website. http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/safetyinformation/fire/arson/Pages/default.aspx |
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The Greenbushes Community Resource Centre has been serving the community of Greenbushes since 1995. Archives
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