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AUTUMN 2023 InTouch | 15 A LUCKY ESCAPE! The first fire engine arrived within minutes followed by two more and later an ambulance. The firemen dealt with the remains of the fire and checked the ceiling as the flames were sucked into the roof cavity by the overhead extractor fan. This did the most damage and we were very lucky that the fire didn’t take hold up there as that would have been much more serious. As it was, one of the roof trusses was singed along with some of the pink batts as well as plenty of melted wires. The firemen were full of praise for my girls acting so quickly and decisively with the fire extinguishers and said that it would have been much worse if they hadn’t done this. They were also pleased that we had gathered up the dogs and were all outside when they arrived, as the toxic smoke was making it difficult to breathe. We were very lucky, but it brought home to me that a house fire if I was home alone could be disastrous. I would not have the strength to lift and operate a fire extinguisher. I was also astounded at how quickly the fire took hold, which was only a matter of seconds. A fire like that at night would be very frightening if you rely on someone else to help you out of bed. We’ve always had insurance so although we aren’t paying for the repairs (aside from the excess) we were amazed that the repair bill has now been quoted at $18,000. We are still waiting for these repairs to be done. What to Know! Understand your fire risk • Having a physical disability doesn’t mean you can’t keep you and your family safe from fire. • Build your home safety plan around your abilities. Install and maintain smoke alarms • Smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. • Ask the manager of your building, or a friend or relative, to install at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home. • Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year. If you can’t reach the test button on your smoke alarm, ask someone to test it for you. Plan your escape • Plan your escape around your capabilities. Know at least two exits from every room. • If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you can get through the doorways. • Make any necessary changes, such as installing exit ramps and widening doorways, to make an emergency escape easier. Don’t isolate yourself • Speak to your family members, building manager or neighbours about your fire safety plan and practice it with them. • Ask emergency providers to keep your needs information on file. • Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 111 or your local emergency number if a fire occurs. AUTUMN 2023 InTouch | 15 111 Text Service If you have difficulty using a phone, you can register with Police to join the 111 TXT service. This service is only to be used in an emergency. This is a nationwide service available to registered users wherever there is cell phone coverage. Registered users can contact the emergency services (Police, Fire and Ambulance) via text messaging on their cell phones. Free home fire safety visit If you, or someone you know, is elderly, disabled or has a Community Services Card, you may qualify for a free home fire safety check. Just call 0800 NZ FIRE (0800 693 473) to see if you’re eligible for a visit from Fire and Emergency New Zealand and a free fire safety inspection of your home. You may qualify to have a free long-life, photoelectric alarm installed.