Warrnambool residents have been urged to be vigilant, with Fire Rescue Victoria attending 11 house fires in a six month period.
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The data relates to the period from June 20 to January 2021, which doesn't include two house fires in Warrnambool this year, in which families lost all their belongings, a blaze which burnt a house to the ground at Willatook and a house fire at Koroit.
A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokeswoman has issued a warning ahead of the winter months, when heaters and wood heaters are an added risk.
"Most fatal fires occur in the home and are preventable," the spokeswoman said.
"Having a home fire escape plan and practising it regularly with your family can save lives.
"Make sure that smoke alarms are installed in all bedrooms, living areas and hallways in your home and test them monthly."
The spokeswoman said unattended cooking, smoking, poorly maintained appliances or hanging clothes too close to a heater were common and preventable causes of house fires.
"Turn off heaters and fully extinguish any open flames (such as candles, incense or fireplaces) before you leave the house or go to bed," she said.
"Only use candles, incense and oil burners only on stable, non-combustible surfaces.
"If a fire occurs in your home, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero."
A house fire in Moonah Street in February was believed to be caused by a faulty kitchen exhaust fan in February, a fridge fire was the source of a blaze in the city in March and the cause of the other two house blazes is being investigated.
In addition to the Warrnambool house fires, firefighters responded to three house fires in Portland in the six month period.
FRV tips for home owners
- It is important to maintain good airflow around electrical items and appliances and remove anything from around or on top of them.
- Only use certified electrical tradespeople to repair damaged or faulty electrical appliances, wiring or equipment.
- Only plug in one electrical device per power board outlet (no double adaptors).
- Ensure home heating, including flues and chimneys, are regularly cleaned and serviced by a certified technician.
- Keep all items that may burn at least one metre away from heat sources.
- Keep looking when cooking.
- Keep lighters, matches, candles, incense, oil burners and cigarettes out of reach of children.
- Turn off all heating and extinguish open fires before leaving home or going to sleep.
- Store chemicals safely away from ignition sources and out of reach of children.
- Always leave keys in locked doors when you are inside so you can escape if a fire occurs.
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