How to prepare for and respond to house fires

5. Smoke Alarms Smoke alarms will warn you if a fire starts, and give you more time to escape safely. Clean and test them regularly to make sure they are working. 4. Electrical Devices and Appliances Electrical appliances and faults cause almost 40 percent of home fires. - Fire and Rescue NSW Don’t leave phones on charge while away. And switch off appliances when not in use. Don’t overload power boards. 3. Heaters and Flames Keep objects at least one meter away from heaters and open fires. Turn off heaters and electric blankets before going to bed. Put out all fires, candles, and cigarettes when you are not at home. 2. Cooking Close to half of home fires start in the kitchen. Don’t leave your kitchen while something is on the stove-top. Fats and oils can overheat and catch fire quickly. 1. Have an Escape Plan In a fire, get out immediately and call emergency services (000 for Australia). Do not return to your home until the fire is out. Plan how to leave your home in a fire. Turn out the lights, practice escaping in the dark.