Family of five, including newborn baby, escapes house fire sparked by heater - Smithfield
Published: 11 Aug 2023 10:55am
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators in Sydney's west have determined that materials left too close to a heater sparked a house fire, from which five people, including a newborn baby, narrowly escaped.
More than a dozen firefighters responded to the blaze, which broke out in a bedroom within a granny flat on the property in Mala Street, Smithfield, just before 1:30am.
It took them more than 30 minutes to extinguish the flames.
Two adults, from the flat, were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for smoke inhalation before being taken to hospital.
A three-week-old baby, which the occupants carried to safety, wasn't injured.
The occupants of an adjoining home were also evacuated as a precaution.
FRNSW Superintendent, Adam Dewberry, warns working smoke alarms should be fitted in common areas of your home, and in each bedroom if you sleep with your doors shut.
"Fires can take hold in just minutes and having working smoke alarms fitted in your home gives yourself and your loved ones the best chance of survival," Supt Dewberry said.
Further winter fire safety advice, including the tip to keep materials and furniture at least a metre from a heater within your home, is available via the FRNSW website: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=9284 [external link]
EDITOR'S NOTE: Additional photos are available via the FRNSW website.
Updated: 11 Aug 2023 02:29pm
Related safety topics
It“s the law to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home.
Having a home escape plan and a working smoke alarm increases your chances of getting out safely.
Learn how to prevent fires from heaters and open fires.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
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Stations nearby
875 The Horsley Drive, Smithfield - Fire Station NSW 2164
198 Fairfield Road, Yennora NSW 2161
340 Merrylands Road, Merrylands NSW 2160