NSW Fire and Rescue has launched a new DVD, ‘Better Safe Than Sorry,’ during Seniors Week, outlining essential fire safety steps seniors should take around their homes.

People aged 65 years and over are the highest fire risk group in the community. In 2010, FRNSW attended 25 fatal residential fires. Nine of these fatalities were aged 65 years and over.

The DVD, narrated by Henri Szeps, will be available through local libraries and on the FRNSW and University of the Third Age (U3A) websites. It will also be available to loan from local fire stations.

As well as providing seniors with self-help advice, it will help fire officers and council community services staff to educate seniors groups on home fire prevention.

In a recent FRNSW survey, seniors were asked about their perceptions on fire safety. Many incorrectly thought they had up to five minutes to escape - they actually have less than half that time.

Fire authorities encourage all residents to prepare a home escape plan, making sure their exit way was clear and that keys were placed in the inside locks of doors to make their escape easier in the event of fire.

We also encourage seniors to participate in the Smoke Alarm Battery Replacement for the Elderly program, SABRE, in which FRNSW fire-fighters change and maintain the smoke alarm batteries for people aged 65 years and older and immobile residents.

The videos cover important home fire safety topics such as kitchen fire safety, using electricity, home heating, bedroom fire safety, smoke alarms, what to do in an emergency, smoke alarms and BBQ fire safety.

Key Details Available online or from fire stations

Online information http://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=881

Further information Melanie Rebane Community Safety Coordinator, Ageing & Disabilities 02 9742 7404 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Ref: R90/1195 MK