In this article:

Check and maintain working smoke alarms, keep exits and pathways clear, never leave cooking unattended, use heaters and electrical items safely, and create a simple, shared escape plan so you can get out, stay out and call 000—while using trusted fire safety resources and checklists to stay prepared.
Fire can happen quickly and without warning, but being prepared can make all the difference. For older people and people living with disability, having clear pathways, working smoke alarms and a simple plan can support a safer, more confident response in an emergency. This guide shares practical steps to help reduce risk and protect your independence at home.

A house fire can be frightening, fast-moving and deeply distressing. For older people and people living with disability, it can be even harder to respond quickly because of mobility, vision, hearing, memory or health needs. 

At Just Better Care, we understand that feeling safe at home is a vital part of living well and independently.

A few practical precautions, combined with a simple emergency plan, can help reduce risk and support greater confidence, choice and peace of mind.

Fire Safety Tip
Keep your fire plan simple, easy to see and regularly practised so you can act quickly and safely in an emergency.

Why Fire Safety matters?

Older people and people living with disability may face additional barriers in an emergency. 

This might include difficulty moving quickly, hearing a smoke alarm, seeing clearly in smoke, remembering what to do under stress, or relying on mobility aids, medical equipment or support from others.

That is why early warning, clear exits and a practised fire escape plan are so important. Small steps taken now can help make the home safer and support a calmer response in an emergency.

Simple ways to reduce fire risk at home

1. Check smoke alarms regularly

Smoke alarms can save lives by giving you more time to respond. Make sure alarms are installed in the right places, test them regularly and replace batteries or units when needed. 

If hearing is a concern, ask about alarms with flashing lights or vibrating alerts.

2. Keep exits and walkways clear

Hallways, doorways and exit points should be free from clutter so you can move quickly and safely. This is especially important if you use a walking aid, wheelchair or other equipment. 

Keep keys, glasses, hearing aids, phone chargers and other essentials easy to find.

Fire Safety at Home:

  • Can you move quickly and safely from your bedroom to the nearest exit?
  • Are doorways and hallways clear of clutter, cords and furniture?
  • Can family, carers or support workers easily access entry and exit points?

3. Take extra care in the kitchen

Cooking is one of the most common causes of house fires. Stay in the kitchen when using the stovetop, keep tea towels and paper away from heat, and turn appliances off as soon as you finish using them. 

If fatigue, memory changes, or distraction is a concern, use timers as reminders.

4. Use heaters and electrical items safely

Keep heaters well away from curtains, bedding and furniture. Check power cords for damage, avoid overloading power boards and switch appliances off when not in use. 

Electric blankets should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and checked regularly for wear.

5. Be careful with candles and open flames

If you use candles, never leave them unattended. Place them well away from curtains, papers and soft furnishings, and always extinguish them before leaving the room or going to sleep.

Create a simple home fire escape plan

A home fire escape plan should be easy to understand and tailored to your household. It does not need to be complicated. What matters most is that you know what to do and where to go.

FIRE ESCAPE CHECKLIST

What to include in your plan?

  • Two possible ways out of each room, if available
  • The easiest and safest exit for your mobility and support needs
  • A safe meeting place outside the home
  • Who will help if assistance is needed
  • Where essential items are kept
  • A reminder to call 000 once safely outside

If you receive Support at Home, it is a good idea to share the plan with family members, carers, and your home care provider.  Practising the plan together can help everyone feel clearer and more confident.

FIRE EMERGENCY

If there is a fire inside the house

Act immediately. Your safety comes first.

  1. Get out as quickly and safely as possible
  2. Stay low to avoid smoke
  3. Stay out once you are outside
  4. Call 000 from a safe place
  5. Do not return inside for belongings or pets

Important

Never assume you have time to go back inside. 
Leave immediately and call 000 once you are safe.

State and Territory Fire Safety resources

For local guidance, alerts and practical home fire safety information, visit your state or territory fire authority:

Download a Fire Safety Checklist

A simple checklist can help you review your home, identify risks and start important conversations with family, carers and support workers.

How can Just Better Care help?

Support at home can include practical help with safety and preparedness. This may include keeping pathways clear, supporting you in checking smoke alarms, talking through an emergency plan, or helping to make sure important items are easy to reach.

With a little planning and the right support, it is possible to reduce fire risk and feel more confident about what to do in an emergency.

Need Support at Home?

Learn how Just Better Care can support your independence and safety at home.

 Get started 

Frequently Asked Questions about Fire Safety at Home.

How can I make my home safer from fire risks?

Start with working smoke alarms, keep exits clear, avoid leaving cooking unattended, and use heaters and electrical items safely. Creating a simple fire escape plan and sharing it with family or support workers can also help you respond quickly. 

What should I do if there is a fire in my home?

Get out as quickly and safely as possible, stay low to avoid smoke, and once outside, stay out. Call 000 from a safe place and do not return inside. For more detailed guidance, visit Fire and Rescue NSW.

How can people living with disability prepare for a fire emergency?

Preparation should reflect your individual needs. This may include planning accessible exit routes, keeping mobility aids nearby, and ensuring support workers and carers understand your emergency plan. You can also explore our disability support services to learn how personalised support can help you stay safe at home.

Are there fire safety resources specifically for older people?

Yes. Many fire authorities provide tailored advice for older people and those at higher risk. The Country Fire Authority (Victoria) and the Australian Red Cross offer practical guidance and checklists to support preparation at home.

Can Just Better Care help with fire safety planning?

Yes. Support workers can assist with everyday safety, including helping you keep pathways clear, and your local Just Better Care office can talk to you about a fire safety plan or connect you with a specialist third party. You can learn more about our services in a few simple steps at our getting started page.