The Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) is calling on Victorians to put a freeze on preventable house fires this winter.
Acting Deputy Chief Officer Community Resilience at MFB, Adam Dalrymple said winter traditionally brought a jump in preventable house fires, and Victorian firefighters were concerned people may not be aware that their everyday activities could spark a blaze.
“Last winter, Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) firefighters responded to 383 residential fires – that’s an average of nearly four house fires every day,” Acting DCO Dalrymple said.
“The most common causes of fire were from everyday activities including cooking (41 per cent), electrical mishaps (17 per cent) and heating systems (12 per cent),” he said.
“We want to see people become more proactive and develop safe fire habits as all house fires are preventable.”
“If you’re not maintaining household items such as electric blankets, heaters and kitchen appliances, or if you are using them incorrectly you are putting yourself and the people you live with at risk.”
Acting DCO Dalrymple said charging smart phones or other electrical devices on soft surfaces like bedding or a couch could also spark a fire.
“There is also a fire risk from overcharging devices, especially electronics that have a lithium-ion battery including power tools or mobility devices.” he said.
“It’s important not to leave these electronics continuously on charge after the charge cycle is complete.”
He said everyone’s first line of defence during a fire was a working smoke alarm.
Acting DCO Dalrymple recommended smoke alarms be installed in bedrooms, living areas and hallways and that multiple units be interconnected.
The MFB’s 20-page Home Fire Safety Booklet can be accessed at this PS News link.
