AUGUST is the worst month for house fires prompting a reminder for Yanchep and Gingin residents to be aware of fire risks in their home and know the steps to stay safe.
Department of Fire and Emergency Services data shows in the four months to July 31 there has already been one death and 24 people injured as a result of 306 house fires.
In August last year 13 people were injured and two died during.
The department’s fire investigation and analysis unit district officer Andy Duckworth urged people to take care and ensure there were no lives lost this August from house fires that all too often could have been prevented.
“Each year people die or are injured under similar circumstances and yet we still don’t realise it can happen to us,’’ he said.
Mr Duckworth said an alarming number of these fires were caused by unattended heat sources such as cooking left on stoves, candles and flammable materials.
There has also been a spike in fires caused by electric blankets, wheat bags and fireplaces in recent months.
“Of the 300-plus house fires that have occurred in the past few months, the instances of unattended heat source fires make up nearly a third of these.
“Understanding how to maintain household goods like electrical and heating components is vital to improving your household’s safety.
“Learn about the dangers in your home, and put safety measures in place such as working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan.
“One day these may save your life.”
For more information and tips on how to keep your home and family safe this winter visit dfes.wa.gov.au/wintersafe/
