House fires spark warning

A RECENT spate of house fires in Mount Evelyn has prompted the CFA to urge residents to be more wary of potential dangers during winter.
Mount Evelyn CFA captain James Armstrong said with about 12 house fires a day in Victoria, most of which are preventable, avoiding risky behaviour was the key to staying safe.
He said firefighters were especially concerned about a worrying rise in the number of fires caused by laptops.
“Laptops generate a surprising amount of heat and we are seeing them left running on bedding and other flammable materials, causing them to ignite fires,” he said.
“Winter is a high-risk time for house fires, but taking simple precautions such as never leaving cooking unattended, turning off electrical appliances at the power point when not in use and keeping clothes away from heaters, gives residents a greater chance of avoiding the devastating effects of fire.”
Mr Armstrong also urged people to ensure they had working smoke alarms, and to also have a fire escape plan ready, complete with the two quickest and safest ways to get out of the house from every room.
Residents who need more information can visit the CFA website, which has a home fire safety checklist and a guide to preparing a home fire escape plan or contact the brigade for advice.
“House fires can have disastrous consequences for our community and we all need to consider some basic precautions around the home,” Mr Armstrong said.