Media Release
Keep your family safe from fire through the school holidays
Many people are at home during the winter season and school holidays. The use of fires, candles and portable heaters
during this time all contribute to an increased risk of fire in the home.
Data compiled by State Insurance, New Zealand’s market leader in general insurance, shows that the number of domestic
fire related insurance claims almost doubled during June and July last year.
Make sure your family stay safe during the winter season and school holidays by following the fire safety tips below:
* Test your smoke detector every month and replace batteries once a year. Smoke detectors beep to signal low battery
power
* Make sure all family members know where your fire extinguisher is located in the home
* Ensure the family knows what to do in the event of a fire. Draw a floor plan with at least two ways of escaping every
room and choose a safe meeting place outside the house
* Test windows and doors—do they open easily enough?
* Lock all doors but be sure they can be easily opened in case of emergency
* Close your bedroom door when you sleep, but make sure you install a smoke detector in your bedroom as well. This will
keep heat and smoke out of your bedroom, giving you additional time to escape
* Keep portable heaters at least three feet from anything that may burn. Never leave heaters on when you leave home or
go to sleep
* Never smoke in bed or when you are sleepy, which can lead to carelessly discarded cigarettes
* Wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook, keep the handles of your pots turned inward and always have a lid
ready to cover your pots
* Store matches and lighters where kids can't reach them, preferably in a locked area.
If a fire develops in your home over the holidays be sure to advise the Fire Service immediately and your insurance
company of any damage occurred.
State wishes all New Zealanders a safe and happy winter.
About State: State has been providing New Zealanders with an extensive range of personal and business insurance services for more
than 100 years. State manages 1.1 million policies on behalf of more than 460,000 New Zealanders. State is a business
division of IAG New Zealand Limited, New Zealand’s largest general insurer.
ENDS