Preventing house fires

3 min read

There are around 3000 house fires in Victoria each year, and sadly, more than 20 people die each year in house fires which could have been prevented. Explore the information in this section for the best chance of avoiding a fire in your home.

Summary

  • Preventing house fires starts with being alert and aware of the risks in your home.
  • Look after and maintain your electrical appliances and equipment.
  • Keep looking when you are cooking.
  • Don't fall asleep with candles, cigarettes or fires lit in your home.
  • Keep things which can catch fire at least a metre away from flames and heating.

House fires are preventable

Preventing house fires is about making simple lifestyle changes, like not leaving the kitchen when you're cooking and putting out cigarette butts properly. Explore the information below to learn what to do to prevent different kinds of fires starting in your home.

Kitchen

Kitchen fires are the most common form of house fire. Learn how to prevent them and what to do if one happens.

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Click through to read Kitchen

Laundry

Your washer and dryer are a fire risk in your home. Learn how to prevent fires in your laundry by following our simple advice.

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Garages and sheds

Learn how to prevent fires starting in your garage or shed, including storing chemicals and charging electrical equipment safely.

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Click through to read Garages and sheds

Heating

Learn how to reduce the risk of electric, gas heaters and open fires starting a fire in your home.

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Candle, oil burner and incense safety

If you have candles, incense and oil burners in your home, it's important to use them safely. Follow these simple tips for the best chance of preventing a fire in your home.

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Smoking, vaping and shisha

Hot charcoal, cigarettes and ash can start fires in your home. Take simple steps to prevent a house fire by making sure you smoke and vape safely.

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Hoarding and fire safety

Fires are more likely to start and be more dangerous in a home where there is hoarding. If you or someone you know has a very cluttered home, they may need some support. CFA can help make their home safer.

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Click through to read Hoarding and fire safety

Electrical fires

Electrical appliances and outlets are a major source of fires in the home. Learn simple ways to prevent an electrical fire starting in your home.

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Click through to read Electrical fires
 

Page last updated: Thursday, 17 September 2026 2:19:45 PM