“Firefighters are well aware of the impact of cold weather on our communities as we see a spike in the number of fires in the home,” Acting Station Commander, Neil Hennessy said.

“Our job is to protect life and property, which is why our firefighters will be out and about over the next two weeks talking with people about what they can do to reduce the risk of a fire in their home.

“Over a two week period we will be stopping in the main street and visiting all local businesses and speaking to locals.  

“We hope this initiative will go a long way to reducing the ongoing risk that many people unknowingly expose their families and themselves to during the current cold snap.”

Nearly half of all home fires and most fire-related injuries occur in kitchens, mainly between 6pm and 7pm.

“But we also need to make people aware about the associated risks involved with heaters, electric blankets and the improper use of outdoor cooking and heating appliances for indoor heating purposes,” Firefighter Malcolm Lavender, said.

"Hopefully seeing the fire truck in and around town regularly over this two week period will prompt people to discuss safe practices at home with their families.”

Firefighters have five life-saving messages for householders:

·         Keep looking when cooking. if your pan catches fire, turn off the stove if safe to do so and use a fire blanket or fire extinguisher. If needed leave the kitchen, close the door and call '000'

·         Don’t bring outdoor heating and cooking equipment indoors. This can lead to the build-up of carbon monoxide, which could be fatal.

·         Keep clothing and other flammable materials at least one metre from your heater.

·         Ensure you have a working smoke alarm and a practised home escape plan.

·         If a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).

For more winter fire safety information go to www.fire.nsw.gov.au/home-fire-safety/index.html