An online learning module has been launched to help support older people and those with disabilities to plan for fire emergencies at home.
The new e-learning module Prevent, Detect, Escape – Home Fire Safety for people at higher risk, is the first of its kind in Australia.
The module was created by CFA and FRV for people at increased fire risk and for people who support or care for them.
On average, 18 people die in residential houses in Victoria every year and people are at a higher risk if they have difficulties identifying that a fire has started, or if they’re slower or unable to escape from a fire at home.
CFA Acting Chief Officer Gavin Thompson said the new course focuses on three main elements to reduce risk.
“Prevention is key and this module looks at the many ways people can reduce the chance of a fire starting,” said A/CO Thompson.
“However, if there is a fire, early detection is crucial and the importance of working smoke alarms is a big part of this module.”
“Finally, this module helps people understand how to make an escape plan that is right for their individual needs.”
Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block said high-risk people are over-represented in fatal fire statistics.
“National statistics show 62 percent of people who die in preventable house fires have a disability,” said Commissioner Block.
“This module has been created to help us reduce the number of fatalities, injuries and the number of fires that occur”.
“The development of this e-learning module has been a truly collaborative effort. It has been designed to be user friendly and has been adapted to sit different learning styles with elements such as videos, audio, subtitles and quizzes.”
CFA and FRV worked with a wide range of stakeholders on the development of the module, including people living with a disability, carers, support workers and service provider managers or coordinators.
Sale resident James Griffiths, who is vision impaired, was one of 50 people who provided feedback on the learning module.
James has first-hand experience of the dangers of house fires, having escaped from a burning house as a child.
James said it’s critical for people with a higher fire risk to know what to do in an emergency.
“I already have additional considerations for everyday life because I’m blind, but this module focuses on more specific things to think about so you’re prepared for a housefire.”
“What’s also important is that this is not only for people with disabilities or older people, who may be at higher risk; it’s also for carers, family members, and support service providers.”
The Prevent, Detect, Escape – Home Fire Safety for people at higher risk e-learning module can be completed online at cfa.vic.gov.au/atrisk and frv.vic.gov.au/atrisk.
