Mudgee region residents are being reminded to check for fire risks around the home, after a fatal fire in Kandos last week.
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A 78-year-old man died and another person rescued and taken to hospital for smoke inhalation in an intense fire on Tuesday, July 25.
Fire and Rescue NSW Duty Commander, Kernin Lambert, said this fire was a timely reminder for residents to check their smoke alarms are working properly.
“Fires can spread extremely rapidly. By the time sleeping occupants are awoken by a fire, the fire has often reached such intensity that escape is impossible,” he said.
“A properly working smoke alarm can give sleeping residents early warning that a fire has started, enabling them to safely escape before the fire has reached a size that escape is no longer possible.
“Smoke will not wake a sleeping occupant; it will only put them into a deeper sleep. It’s better to be woken by a smoke alarm than the fire.
Another important household check is electricity power boards.
Mr Lambert said its important boards are not overloaded.
“We are still in the middle of winter, and statistically this is when many fire tragedies occur, due to use of "seasonal" equipment such as heaters, dryers, electric blankets, etc.
“We encourage all persons to remain vigilant, check the condition of all electrical appliances in use and ensure power circuits are not overloaded, in particular, the overloading of electrical power boards,” he said.
Members of Fire and Rescue NSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit from Sydney are worked closely with Police forensics crime scene examiners to determine the cause of the Kandos fire.
At this time, the cause is still under investigation, however, at the present time the fire is not being treated as suspicious. A full report into the fire is being prepared for the State Coroner.
FRNSW FIRE SAFETY TIPS
- Test smoke alarms regularly and change the battery at least once every 12 months.
- Have a licensed electrician check your wiring and install a safety switch.
- Don’t overload power points and switch off household appliances when not in use.
- Never smoke in bed.
- Heaters should be kept at least one metre from curtains and furniture.