“Don’t overload power boards and if you are going out, unplug electric cords from outlets. Use the holiday season to prepare for bushfires by clearing gutters of leaves and be careful if camping,” Supt Adams said.

If you are going away for the holidays, make sure you leave your home safe by cleaning up all combustibles from around the house, and take note of any fire restrictions that may be in place if you are going camping.

FESTIVE FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Within the home

Have working smoke alarms in your home

Create a home fire escape plan and practise it with your family

Don’t overload power boards

Check decorative lights

Use indoor lights inside only

Switch off fairy lights before going to bed or leaving the house

Be careful with candles.

Outside the home

Prepare your property for bushfire. Clean gutters of leaves and remove combustibles from around the house

Check that barbecues are in safe working order

Check for Total Fire Bans on www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or 1800 NSW RFS

Only use gas or electric barbecues according to regulations during a Total Fire Ban

Get a permit for outside fires, ask fire authorities for advice.

While away on holiday

Be aware of bushfire or camp in fire affected areas

Extinguish camp fires properly. Camp fires and portable barbecues are prohibited during Total Fire Bans. Take care with gas cylinders

Check the RFS website for further information: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.