Get sorted before the silly season By Fire and Rescue NSW

A few simple jobs now can help Northern Rivers households prepare for a safer summer.

The weather’s warming up, and there’s usually a fair bit to do around the place. Some jobs can wait. A few are worth getting sorted now.

Whether you’re in town or out on a property, start with your smoke alarms. If you haven’t tested them lately, give them a check.

Can’t safely reach, even with the end of your broomstick? Ask someone for a hand. No point risking a fall to tick a job off the list.

Then have a quick chat with everyone at home.

If there was a fire tonight, how would you get outside? Would anyone need help? Pick a meeting place, too. It’s much easier to work this out when you’re sitting around the kitchen table.

On the subject of the kitchens, stay nearby while you’re cooking.

It’s easy to duck outside for one thing and find three more jobs on the way. Remember to turn that stove off if you need to leave.

Outside, clear away built up leaves and garden waste.

And give the shed or garage a look over. Most of us have a few tins and containers we’ve been meaning to deal with for years. Check with your council about safe disposal rather than giving into that temptation to move them further into the back corner.

No need to tackle the whole lot at once.

Do a little when you can and ask for a hand if you need one. Every job sorted is one less thing to worry about, and a little more peace of mind for you and the people you care about.

Need advice?

Reach out to your nearest Fire and Rescue NSW station. They can also advise whether a free Home Fire Safety Visit is available at your address and visit fire.nsw.gov.au.

For bushfire preparation advice, visit rfs.nsw.gov.au.