Don’t risk it, be home fire safe this August

Already there has been one death and 24 people injured as a result of 306 house fires in the four months to 31 July 2017.

August is traditionally Western Australia’s highest risk period for house fires, prompting a reminder from DFES for the community to be aware of fire risks in their home, and know the simple steps to stay safe.

DFES Fire Investigation and Analysis Unit District Officer Andy Duckworth urged people to take care and ensure there were no lives lost this August from house fire.

“Each year people die or are injured under similar circumstances and yet we still don’t realise it can happen to us. All too often, the fire could have been prevented.”

District Officer Duckworth said an alarming number of these fires were caused by unattended heat sources such as cooking left on stoves, candles and flammable materials.

There has also been a spike in fires caused by electric blankets, wheat bags and fire places in recent few months.

“Of the 300-plus house fires that have occurred in the past few months, the instances of unattended heat source fires make up nearly a third of these,” he said.

“Understanding how to maintain household goods like electrical and heating components is vital to improving your household’s safety.

“Learn about the dangers in your home, and put safety measures in place such as working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan. One day these may save your life.”

For more information and tips on how to keep your home and family safe this winter visit dfes.wa.gov.au/wintersafe/

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Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9395 9543