Wagga firefighters have been meeting new home-owners from non-English speaking backgrounds to teach them about fire safety.
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Turvey Park Fire and Rescue station commander Justin Bentley said they undertake a home safety audit check and provide fire safety knowledge.
“It’s also a meet and greet because in other countries the fire service is part of the military and we explain who we are and that we are free from the government,” he said.
“People open up, even with the language barrier, and at first they might be apprehensive of a stranger in a uniform but at the end of it they are telling you their life story.
“It’s important for them to know that all emergency services are here to help. Keep looking when cooking.”
Twe Twe, assisted by translator and friend Htusan Labang, said she felt safer after meeting the firefighters and learning tips for fire safety.
Belinda Crain, CEO of the Wagga Multicultural Society, said they have identified 21 homes that need the checks and have completed 13 so far.
“It breaks down those barriers and by the firefighters coming here and having a conversation it helps them to feel safer,” she said.
“They go into everything and all the different things they need to be aware of to reduce a risk of fire.”
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