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Residents warned about winter house fire threatBack in the heat of the new year, a large and potentially disastrous fire approached Latrobe City from the northern boundary of our municipality. By Latrobe City Council - 1st August 2006 - Back to News The emergency management community worked together in response and recovery to combat this huge threat.
Latrobe’s municipal emergency co-ordinator, Lance King, said that whilst the combined efforts of so many people shows what can be accomplished under strenuous circumstances, the major threat to our homes is ourselves.
"In Latrobe City, statistics show that we have an average of 134 fires a year. From July 2005 to July 2006, there were 86 structure and house fires. There is an ongoing attitude that house and structure fires happen to other people and not to us," Mr King explained.
"Most house fires can be avoided by taking a little more time and care, especially in winter, when heating appliances are used more often. Ensure that furnishings, toys or clothes are not placed too close to the heater. If you have a wood heater or stove, ensure that the flues are correctly installed and carry out a regular maintenance check for wear and tear and deterioration on your solid fuel heaters and chimneys," Mr King said.
"Care in the kitchen is essential. Allowing a saucepan to boil over or boil dry on the stove, or even leaving the stove unattended is a common cause of house fires.
"Smoking in bed and children playing with matches are also identified as contributing factors for house fires," Mr King added.
Mr King said that leaving appliances on at night-time or when the house is unattended could also lead to fire.
"If this happens, the results can be devastating. An empty house can be rapidly destroyed and a fire occurring when residents are sleeping can make escape from the property more difficult," Mr King explained.
"Being vigilant to potential dangers and ensuring you have a maintenance program for appliances can reduce the risk of fires. Have a fire plan, know the quickest way out of your house, and most importantly install and maintain a smoke alarm. These are easy, yet essential, ways of surviving a house fire," Mr King concluded.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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