Fire and Rescue NSW warns stockpiling could be a fire hazard

With panic buying of products, stripping goods from local stores as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nyngan Fire and Rescue captain Rob Avard is warning residents that hoarding these products in the home could increase the risk of fire.

Captain Avard said the stockpiling of items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser could not only add to the fuel load of a house fire, but its placement in the home could have harmful effects in the event of a fire.

"The first thing is people need to think about where they're putting these items," captain Avard said.

"People shouldn't place large amounts of items near doorways which creates blockages or narrow pathways, which might impede escape for the occupant and make firefighting difficult in the event of a fire."

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With winter fast approaching, Captain Avard said people should also be mindful not to place stored goods near items such as open fires and heaters.

"It can be twofold, it can be dangerous for escaping and dangerous to the fuel load of a fire," he said.

"Hand sanitiser is classified as a flammable liquid, and having lots in the wrong place in the home can potentially cause serious problems if catching fire.

"If a fire occurs it can also make it potentiality harder for us firefighters."

Captain Avard is urging residents to be mindful about how much they're buying and stockpiling.

"We're not trying to police anyone or saying you can't do it, we're just trying to make people aware that what people are doing can be potential for fire hazard."