TOOL BOX TALKS Fire Safety

Fire Safety Tips At least one smoke alarm on each level of building Test smoke alarm monthly and replace battery at least annually Have a written home escape plan and practice it Never leave cooking or open flames including candles, fireplace or oil burners unattended Keep keys close at hand or in door locks Clean lint filters every time you use clothes dryer Never smoke in bed Don’t overload power points and switch off appliances when not in use Lock away lighters and matches

Fire Escape Plan 1.Draw a floor plan of your home/office/day service 2.Draw your escape plan and discuss with all concerned 3.Decide on a safe outside meeting place 4.Practice your plan at least twice a year Tips: Windows and doors with security bars must have a quick release device Never open doors that are hot to touch If there is a fire: STAY LOW, GET OUT and STAY OUT If clothes catch fire: STOP, DROP, COVER AND ROLL until the flames are extinguished

Kitchen Fire Safety tips Turn pot handles inwards so they won’t be knocked over Ensure you have fire extinguisher/blanket nearby and know how to use If cooking oil catches fire, turn off hotplate and slide lid over pan or use fire blanket Ensure all cooking appliances turned off after use Don’t wear clothes with loose fitting sleeves Don’t keep tea towels, oven mitts and other flammable items near cooktop Don’t use water to put out fat and oil fires

Power Board Safety Don’t overload Avoid dust build up – place on side Ensure suitable ventilation to dissipate heat generated Regularly check that all plugs are firmly fixed in power boards Regularly inspect power boards and leads for signs of damage and degradation Install safety switches

BBQ SAFETY Check for any fire restrictions and comply Ensure regular pressure testing of any gas cylinders and check hoses and connections for blockages or perishing Check cylinders for rust or damage and that connections are clean and fitting snugly Spray soapy water on suspect connections, bubbles will form if gas is escaping Site BBQ on firm, level base, well ventilated but sheltered from wind and away from flammables Have garden hose available at all times Follow manufacturers’ instructions for start up and shut down. Never use flammable liquid on a BBQ.

In Case Of Fire Remain calm - remember RACE RESCUE Rescue any people in immediate danger (only if it safe to do so). ALARM –Raise the alarm –ring the Fire Brigades on 000 –notify your switchboard –notify the staff member in charge

In Case of Fire cont. CONTAIN If practicable, close all doors and windows to contain the fire (only if it safe to do so). EXTINGUISH Try to extinguish the fire using appropriate firefighting equipment only if you are trained and it is safe to do so.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan(PEEP) Each client you support should have a PEEP and you need to be familiar with it A PEEP should detail needs of person during emergency e.g. – Route to take – Mobility requirements – Communication requirements – Equipment needs – Any designated assistants – Knowledge and ability to comply in an emergency