Two houses in one week. And it's two too many according to Riverina's duty commander for Regional West three Inspector Dean Emery.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
While the cause of the house fires on Field Place and Mansfield Avenue are still being determined by forensic investigators, Inspector Emery said it was a stark reminder for everyone to be fire safe.
With the rate of house fires increasing by around thirty four percent during the winter months, he said there are a few key things to remember.
"We haven't had many fires in Griffith recently apart from the last two, which shows people are being vigilant," he said.
With a third of all injuries in NSW resulting from fires starting in the kitchen, he says to not forget: "keep looking while you're cooking".
And as the cold weather putting a dampener on the ability for people to dry clothes outside, there is the alluring appeal of drying in front of the heater.
"But always remember - keep a meter from the heater," he explained, which not only goes for clothes, but other items as well.
READ MORE
Bringing outdoor appliances that use gas, like outdoor heaters or BBQs, inside can also be extremely hazardous.
"We have had a few fires, not recently in Griffith though, where people are cooking or heating with LPG cylinders inside.
"People say, oh I'll bring that into the house, but the fumes can leak, be toxic, and cause fires."
While Inspector Emery said most of the tips are maintenance related, like cleaning lint from filters, not overloading power boards and turning off electric blankets, what is extremely vital is for every single house to have a working smoke alarm.
Make sure to follow the fire safety tips below:
- Turn off heaters and electric blankets before leaving home or getting into bed
- Clean lint filters in the clothes dryer before or after each use
- Don't overload powerboards
- Keep candles away from curtains and put them out before leaving the room
- Don't use LPG cylinders for cooking or heating indoors as they can leak and the gas is both toxic and highly explosive.
- Ensure you have a working smoke alarm
"We find that there's a surge in winter, but of course maintain that vigilance throughout the year," Inspector Emery concluded.
For more information, or to get assistance with your smoke alarm, visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au.
***
While you're with us, did you know that you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Monday at 6am from The Area News? To make sure you're up to date with all the Griffith and MIA news you can sign up here.