ACTWELL Fire

In the middle of a training course with TacMed, ready to bring cutting-edge techniques back to the classroom. Another day where teamwork means everything and laughter is part of the job description.

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*The Dangerous Gap in Standard Warden Training Programs*

An article written by our founding Director, Adam, sharinig some insighs into the many shortcuts we see that are putting people and organisations at risk. Engaging in regular Wardens training that isn't effective, engaging or site-specific is just throwing good money after bad. Here are the problems we see, and what good training should look like.

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Attention all home chefs and kitchen enthusiasts! It's time to turn the heat up on safety with our top tips for a hazard-free cooking zone.

From battling grease build-ups to handling flare-ups like a pro, we're dishing out essential advice to keep your culinary adventures safe and enjoyable.

So, grab your aprons, and let's dive into these kitchen safety hacks that are as crucial as your secret ingredient!

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Renew your focus on workplace safety through effective Emergency Planning. Craft, act, and practice – a steady reminder that safety is a constant commitment in the workplace

Remember, aligning with Australian Standard 3745 ensures your plan isn't just a formality but a vital part of your business's safety culture.

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Fire safety is everyone's responsibility, and the first step is understanding the facts from the myths. Let's debunk some common misconceptions about fire extinguishers to ensure you're equipped with accurate knowledge in case of an emergency.

🔥 Extinguishers can be used on large fires
Extinguishers typically only last for around 20-30 seconds, depending on their size. They are designed to be used on small, developing fires ONLY. Attempting to use them on larger fires could put you at a serious risk of toxic smoke inhalation and severe burns.

🔥 CO2 are the best type of extinguisher for any fire.
CO2 extinguishers whilst versatile, do have their limitations. They extinguish the fire by displacing oxygen which the fire needs to continue to burn. But when oxygen is reintroduced, if there is still sufficient heat, and fuel, reignition is likely to occur. Fat fires are a great example... it is perfectly safe to use a CO2 extinguisher on a fat fire, but the fat will likely retain its heat, so once the extinguisher is empty the fire is likely to reignite!

🔥 Extinguishers don't need to be serviced
In a workplace, there is a requirement for all extinguishers to be serviced every 6-months.

Whilst there is no such requirements for this in a domestic setting, we recommend getting yours tested regularly, and replacing it after 5 years.

🔥 Any extinguisher can be used on a fire
Actually, it can be incredibly dangerous to use certain types of extinguishers on some fires! So it's important you have the right ones. For example, water should never be used in the kitchen, as it is dangerous with electrical fires, and especially with cooking fat fires. Instead you should use a fire blanket, a dry chemical extinguisher or a CO2 extinguisher. Commercial kitchens should have 'wet chemical' extinguishers specially designed to manage a cooking fat fire in a deep fryer.

🔥 One extinguisher is enough for my workplace
There are a number of factors that determine the number and type of extinguishers that you should have in your workplace, including
-size and layout
-the type of business you operate
-presence of flammables or other hazards
-stairwells and the number of levels

Workplaces must adhere to adhere to Australian Standards, building codes, and relevant legislation to ensure they are meeting all of the requirements. It is best to ask an expert 'fire service maintenance' company to conduct an assessment of your workplace requirements.

As we step into 2024, it's the perfect time to look at your Fire & Emergency Management within your workplace.

ACTWELL Fire & Emergency Management offers bespoke services tailored to enhance your organisation's safety preparedness, from detailed and customised Emergency Management Plans (EMPs) and Evacuation Diagrams to comprehensive Fire Wardens training. We ensure your business meets and exceeds compliance and that your team and workplace are well-prepared for the year ahead.

Visit us at actwellfire.com.au

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🔥 A single e-bike, a significant hazard… a reminder of the hazards that battery technology can pose.

Saw these pics today from London where a recent fire in an apartment is suspected to have been caused by an e-bike left charging.

The bike was in the hallway, and thankfully, the residents managed to escape without harm. The location of the fire in a ground floor flat undoubtedly aided their quick evacuation, as the fire quickly engulfed the area, emitting dangerous smoke.

At ACTWELL Fire, we understand the severe risks posed by these types of fires. This is why storing e-bikes and e-scooters inside can be a problem. If you have no alternative, please store them in a separate room, where you can close the door in case of a fire, and ensuring it's not blocking any exits.

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Photo's by London Fire Brigade

😧 Errrrr... Now what? 😂

Emergency planning is more than just whacking a few signs up.

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Photo courtesy of

Own a Short Term Rental Property? Get your Evacuation Diagrams as required by NSW legislation from $199.

New fire safety regulations came into effect in March 2022. Among other requirements, it became compulsory for all Short Term Rental Accommodation properties to display Evacuation Diagrams inside the entrance to the property and every bedroom.

ACTWELL Fire can assist with all of the requirements under the new regulations.

Send us an enquiry today, and have your new diagrams within 48 hours!!!

Sounds about right... 🤔

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This is why you should sleep with your bedroom doors closed and have interconnected smoke alarms in every bedroom.

During a compartment fire, the superheated, flammable gases (smoke) are what cause the fire to spread fastest. Closing doors contains the smoke/fire and provides precious extra minutes of clean/cool air for occupants to survive, and hopefully evacuate.

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New facility on track to open March 2022...

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What an amazing staff we have. Thanks for the incredible gift!

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Progress ...

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Ever worried about what will happen if your staff are faced with an on-site emergency?

Does your business have an Emergency Plan and compliant Evacuation Diagrams?

Did you know that under federal legislation, every facility in Australia must have an Emergency Plan? There are significant penalties for not complying or even jail time if negligence results in death or serious injury.

We are changing the way that organisations prepare by making their Emergency Plans more user-friendly and interactive. Our emergency management suite helps organisations achieve total compliance with Australian Standard AS3745-2010 Planning for Emergencies in a Facility.
-Online safety induction and emergency management program
-Fully customised & site specific
-Annual site specific emergency training for your staff
-Fire warden training
-Training videos
-WHS Procedures
-Legislative updates
-AS 3745-2010 compliant Evacuation Diagrams

How many of your staff actually read their Emergency Procedures manual, know the location of emergency equipment on site, and are trained to use it properly?

If you are serious about having your staff prepared for the worst, then our experienced team of Emergency Consultants can provide you with everything you need and give you peace of mind.

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Our new office is finally underway!
Lots of work to be done, but this little gem on Canberra Avenue will be the new home of ACTWELL Fire and ACTWELL First Aid & Training from January 2022!

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Welcome to our new page! ACTWELL Fire are Canberra's leading provider for Fire & Emergency Consultants. We specialise in site specific Emergency Compliance, Emergency Plans, Evacuation Diagrams, Evacuation Procedures and Fire Warden training. With over 50 years combined experience in Emergency Services and Education, and the latest in software and technology, our expert team are well prepared to help you.

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ACTWELL Fire updated their business hours.

ACTWELL Fire updated their website address.

ACTWELL Fire updated their phone number.