The annual event is part of the NSW Fire Brigades plan to encourage people to formulate and practise evacuation plans in the event of fire or emergency.

“Evacuation plans save lives, as fire can engulf a home or workplace in a matter of minutes,” Station Commander Geoff Bunn said.

“If there is a fire, each member of your home or workplace should know what to do and where to meet.

“It will give everyone a better chance of getting out alive and reduce their level of panic.”

“Every home and workplace in New South Wales, including schools, TAFE’s, universities, hospitals, childcare centres and nursing homes, is being urged to practise or examine its evacuation plan on August 31, 2001.

The NSW Fire Brigades suggested home fire escape plan is set out below:

• Install smoke alarms, test them regularly and replace batteries at least once a year

• Know two ways out of every room where possible

• Decide on a safe meeting place outside, for example the letter box

• Draw your escape plan on paper

• Discuss it with your family

• Practise your escape plan at least once a year

People should not panic if confronted by a fire. Instead they should stay low under the smoke and use the escape plan to get outside.

Ring the Fire Brigades from an adjoining property. Do not go back inside for any reason until you are told it is safe to do so.

For further information on evacuation plans contact Braidwood Fire Station, Commander Geoff Bunn on 4842 2524.