Be fire safe outdoors these school holidays

Whether your kids explore the backyard or the great outdoors these winter school holidays, fire safety is always a top priority.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Community Engagement Acting Director Eamonn Lennon encouraged families to take advantage of the holidays and teach children about fire safety outdoors.

“While many parents and carers enjoy getting their kids close to nature, the most important thing is to stay safe,” Mr Lennon said.

“If the backyard is your kids’ playground preparation is key, so ensure your yard is clear of dry leaves and grass is kept short.

“Involving your youngest family members when fireproofing the backyard is an enjoyable way to teach them about important fire safety messages.

“When it comes to fire safety, it’s your responsibility to prepare all members of the family. Even the youngest members should be aware of the steps you will take as a household during an emergency.”

Mr Lennon said Queenslanders camping over the winter break were urged to enjoy the great outdoors safely.

“Many families camp in the cold weather over the school holidays, so it’s especially important to educate children about how to behave around campfires and in bushfire prone areas,” he said.

“This means teaching children to recognise fire hazards and seek safety during emergencies.

“A simple way to do this is to explain the safety measures you are taking while camping and setting up a campfire.

“One lesson that’s essential to teach them is that campfires should always be extinguished with water, never sand or dirt. Fires covered with dirt or sand can radiate heat of around 100 degrees eight hours later, which is hot enough to cause a serious burn.

“Lessons like these can help all young people to understand the consequences of unsafe campfires, including how quickly they spread and their potential to threaten surrounding homes, structures and even lives.”

Queensland’s kids are encouraged to join Blazer’s Brigade these school holidays, and pick up some handy fire safety tips.

For more information check out Blazer’s Brigade on the QFES Facebook page (Queensland Fire and Emergency Services – QFES) or head to https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/kids/.