In order to keep your property in top-notch condition, and keep your guests safe, we recommend the following:
- Ensure you have functioning smoke alarms. The NZ Fire Service suggest installing long-life photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway. The battery for these smoke alarms doesn't have to be replaced for up to 10 years but check them regularly to ensure they're working 100%.
- Have a fire extinguisher at your holiday house so you and your guests will be better prepared to put out small fires before they become big ones.
- Create an escape plan, and have this information available in a welcome pack for guests when they arrive at your property. Also, provide information about where they can find a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency phone numbers, and where they can find the nearest hospital.
- Contact your local authority to see if there are any health and safety regulations or by-laws that you need to comply with.
- Identify potential hazards and ensure you meet regulations to minimise any danger associated with them. Swimming pools, decks, chemicals/poisons are just some of the potential hazards to keep in mind when safeguarding your home.
- Ensure your appliances and heating devices (eg, oven, heaters etc) are in working order and checked periodically to make sure they're safe.