01/05/2026
Home fire safety starts with a plan. For Berowra Waters, river access homes and families living near bushland, every household should know exactly what to do if fire starts inside the home.
Create a home fire escape plan by drawing a simple floor map. Mark two ways out of every room, usually a door and a window.
Make sure everyone in your home knows to:
🏠 Check smoke alarms are working
🚪 Know two safe ways out of every room
🪟 Keep doors and windows clear
🔑 Know where keys are kept for doors, windows, gates and security screens
🖐️ Check doors for heat with the back of your hand before opening
⬇️ Stay low and crawl under smoke
🚪 Close doors behind you as you leave
📍 Meet at a safe outdoor location, such as a letterbox, driveway, jetty, neighbour’s house or clear open area
🚫 Get out and stay out
Practise your escape plan at least twice a year, including at night. Include children, older family members, visitors, short-stay guests and pets in your plan.
For river residents and bushland homes, access matters. Make sure your house number, jetty, driveway, gate, access track or landing point is clearly marked so emergency services can find you quickly.
If you cannot escape, close the door, seal gaps with towels or clothing, call 000 and tell the operator exactly where you are.
In a house fire, every second matters. A simple plan, practised regularly, can save lives.