Researchers have identified strong links between hoarding and squalor and an increase in risk.
Hoarding and squalor can:
- affect the ability of the occupant(s) to maintain a healthy and safe living environment
- increase the risk of trips and falls
- increase the likelihood of a fire
- reduce access required to maintain utilities and fixed appliances resulting in unorthodox and unsafe practices for heating, cooking and/or lighting
- increase the likelihood of the occupant(s) being trapped and being able to safely self-evacuate in the event of a fire
- significantly affect how quickly firefighters can gain entry to perform search and rescue
- delay access for other emergency responders who may also be needed in other emergencies (such as paramedics from Ambulance Victoria and firefighters from Fire Rescue Victoria and Country Fire Authority)
- lead to social isolation (avoiding friends and visitors to the house)
- impact the health, wellbeing and safety of children
- affect relationships with partners or family members
Image courtesy of Fire Rescue Victoria, 2017
How to reduce these risks
The FRV and CFA recommend the following steps be taken to minimise safety risks within a home:
- install smoke alarms and test them
- unblock exits and clear pathways where possible
- check if utilities are connected correctly and operate safely
- establish at least a one metre clearance area around cooking areas, electrical appliances and heaters
- disconnect any appliances not in use
