As part of the Get Firewise Programme delivered in schools children are made aware of what to do in case of a fire, but what about adults Firewise preparedness?  Ask your kids and hopefully they’ll tell you all about escape plans, safe meeting places and much more.  It’s a good family time…

In the event of a fire

• Crawl low and fast to escape smoke – 'Get Down, Get Low, Get out.'
• Shut doors behind you to slow the spread of fire
• Meet at the planned meeting place (letter box, neighbor’s driveway)
• Once out, stay out – never go back inside
• Phone 111 and ask for the Fire Service from a safe phone
• Tell the Fire Service the house number, street, nearest intersection, suburb and city.

Nothing can really prepare us for the impact of a fire on our family and property.  It can make us feel helpless and unsure of what to do next.  This is entirely understandable.  The New Zealand Fire Service will help you through this distressing situation and in the aftermath and give you some important guidance including:

• It is normal to feel unsettled and disrupted for a while
• You may well be able to overcome any problems yourself but don't be afraid to ask for help
• After a crisis, it is often easier to talk to someone who is not involved and is trained to listen and help you find the assistance you need
• Victim Support provides a free, flexible and confidential service – free phone 0800 842 846.

Concluding word... “Discretion is the better part of valor”.  If you say discretion is the better part of valor, you mean that avoiding a dangerous or unpleasant situation is sometimes the most sensible thing to do.

Firefighter Isabelle LARDEUX-GILLOUX