Two house fires
Wednesday February 11, 2009
Two house fires in the Cobar area last week have prompted the NSW Fire Brigade to remind residents about fire safety.
A house on a rural property west of Cobar was completely destroyed by fire last Wednesday, and a house in Marshall Street sustained significant damage following a fire last Thursday.
The homestead 160km from Cobar on the Ivanhoe Road was in the process of being renovated when it was burnt down between 5pm and 6.50pm last Wednesday.
The residents were away from the home at the time, and Rural Fire Service personnel attended the fire.
A cause of the blaze is yet to be determined.
A motorist driving past the house in Marshall Street noticed flames and smoke coming from an air conditioner at the side of the house and alerted the occupant at around 4am.
Fire brigade personnel attended the scene and managed to extinguish the fire, with most of the damage sustained in the roof cavity and eastern side of the house.
Cobar fire captain Colin Jones said residents should review fire safety measures, including checking smoke alarms and ensuring all electrical equipment is in proper working order.
“During summer, we all use our air conditioners and fans more so it’s important that before you turn them on, check the electrical cords to ensure they are not frayed or damaged and, if necessary, get electrical appliances checked by an expert.
“It is also vital that you make sure you have at least one working smoke alarm installed on each level of your home and more importantly, that it is tested on a regular basis,” Mr Jones said.
Cobar fire brigade deputy captain Heath Montgomery said it is also important that people develop and practice a home escape plan which includes two safe escape routes from every room.
“For families with children, it is essential that parents emphasise that once you are out of a burning house, you stay out. Don’t go back for pets or valuables,” Mr Montgomery said.
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