It's a scenario we all dread: a house fire sweeping through your home, wreaking havoc on your belongings and putting your family at risk.
And a new virtual reality simulator has revealed just how quickly a fire can devastate your home.
The terrifying 360 degree video shows a gas fire left unattended in a living room, which bursts into flames, and fills the room with black smoke in a matter of seconds.
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In the video, a gas fire left unattended in a living room sets fire to a rack of clothes that has been left beside it. Within seconds, the clothes are engulfed by flames.
Viewers can browse around the room to see the effects of the fire, alongside poignant messages, encouraging people to leave behind valuables and escape quickly.
The description for the video reads: 'Fire is deadly fast. How will you get out? Escape Planner is an easy way to prepare your family for a house fire, so that everyone gets out fast, and stays out.'
The New Zealand Fire Service is encouraging everyone to have an escape plan so that they can quickly get to safety in the event of a fire.
By Shivali Best
