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Death, injury and property loss from residential fires are a major
concern throughout the year, but especially during the winter months
when the number of house fires increases.
You’ll have a much greater chance of avoiding the
devastating effects of fire if you take action now to reduce
the risks in your home.
Common causes
Most house fires start in the kitchen
- Kitchen stoves are a major fire hazard
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Keep stoves free from grease and fat build up
- Keep the stove and toaster away from tea towels and curtains
- Wear tight-fitting sleeves when cooking.
Faulty wiring is dangerous
- Ensure all switches are in good order. Wires should not be exposed and should always be insulated
- Have all repairs done by a registered electrician. Don't attempt to do it yourself
- Never overload power outlets. Multiple double adaptors and powerboards can overload powerpoints
- Don't place extension leads under carpet or furniture
- Install safety switches. These isolate power instantly from your switchboard if a sudden surge of power is detected. Go to the Energy Safe Victoria website (www.esv.vic.gov.au) for more information.
Electrical appliances
- Ensure appliances are used in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications
- Check electrical items are in good working order. Have them maintained and checked by a registered electrician if you are concerned, especially second-hand items
- Have damaged plugs and leads replaced by a registered electrician
- Turn off appliances at the power point when not in use
- If a fire starts, turn off power immediately at power point or switchboard if safe to do so.
Electric blankets
- Never leave electric blankets on overnight or during the day - turn them on about 30 minutes before bedtime
- Store electric blankets according to manufacturer's instruction
- Do not place heavy objects on a working electric blanket. This includes pets
- Don't sleep with electric blankets on.
Smoking in bed
- Never smoke in bed
- Embers can smoulder in bedding and burst into flame when you are asleep
- Ensure butts are extinguished before disposal.
Clothes dryers
- Clean lint filter after each use
- Allow dryer to complete cool-down cycle.
Home heating 
- Turn off heating when you go to bed
- Do not place clothing too close to heaters
- Ensure heaters and flues are professionally installed and maintained
- Check walls and floors are appropriately insulated from heat sources and that heaters are well distanced from combustible materials
- Be careful where you place portable heaters
- Place a screen in front of open fires
- Never let a fire burn after you've gone to bed or left the house. Ensure ashes are cold before discarding
- Never leave children unattended near open fires and heaters.
Candles and oil burners
- Keep candles away from curtains and other flammable materials
- Always use on non-combustible surfaces
- Make sure you use water and oil in the heating bowl.
You can reduce your risk of a house fire causing serious
property damage or even serious injury or life loss by having
a working smoke alarm, making a home
escape plan and installing home fire safety equipment.
Find the Your Home Fire Safety brochure in the Home Safety page of the Publications section.
Check Your Hotspots
Winter is a high risk time for house fires, so taking care to Check Your Hotspots could save a life.
Download the Check Your HotSpots House (pdf 81k)
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