CFA warns against heater complacency

By Gabriel Garcia

Jun 19, 2023

Double check: The CFA is warning Victorians to check their home heating systems regularly. Photo by Megan Fisher

The CFA is warning Victorians to check their home heating systems regularly with firefighters already having attended 23 heater-related fires this year.

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On average the CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria personnel attend more than 240 heating system-caused fires each year.

CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook has advised Victorians to have their gas and electrical heating systems serviced every two years.

“We know from last year’s data that most fires that resulted in serious injuries and fatalities started in lounge rooms and sleeping areas, and for those lounge areas, these were mostly sparked by heating systems that at times were not working properly and when located too close to flammable materials,” Mr Cook said.

Mr Cook is reminding Victorians to turn off heating systems when going to bed or leaving their residential property, and to keep clothes that are drying at least one metre from heat sources.

Fire Rescue Victoria commissioner Gavin Freeman said Victorians should also not neglect any outside heaters.

“Don’t forget to check in on any outdoor heaters you may have as well, ensuring the area they are positioned in is flat, has good air flow and away from objects that can catch alight,” he said.

“As their purpose is to be outside, never use your outdoor heaters or cooking equipment inside your home, as it can lead to deadly build-up of gases.”

When it comes to home heating the FRV and CFA recommend:

Never leave portable heaters and fireplaces unattended; turn off heating devices before leaving home or going to sleep.
Drying clothes and other items must be kept at least one metre away from all heating.
Residents should have their gas heaters inspected and serviced every two years to ensure the safety of loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.
Children must be supervised near all types of heating. Maintain a safe distance between children and heating.
Heaters should be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions, away from wet areas if they are portable and when purchasing a heater look for one that has an automatic safety switch that will turn off if the heater is tipped over.
Residents should note home heating systems include fixed electrical or gas-powered appliances, portable electrical, gas or kerosene heaters, as well as open fires and wood heaters.
Victorians should purchase affordable smoke alarms and prioritise installing them in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and cleaned annually to ensure they are working properly.