Ferocious fire damages neighbouring homes on Sydney's Northern Beaches - Balgowlah
Published: 08 May 2023 10:18am
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is investigating a fire which destroyed a home and damaged another on Sydney's Northern Beaches.
More than 50 FRNSW firefighters, and 12 fire trucks, responded to the blaze on Seaview Street, Balgowlah, just after 2am.
A two-storey house, as well as a detached garage, a shed and a caravan, were quickly engulfed by flames.
The fire then spread to a neighbouring home, causing significant damage.
The occupants of both properties made it outside before the fire took hold.
No injuries have been reported from this incident.
FRNSW's Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) is working to establish the cause of the fire, which at this stage is not considered suspicious.
Experts are reminding everyone to consider fire safety in their own homes as the state endures a 'cold snap' and people seek out ways to keep themselves and their families warm.
FRNSW Superintendent Adam Dewberry said a fire can take hold in just three minutes, yet it only takes seconds to prevent one.
"First and foremost, every home must have working smoke alarms, that are less than ten years old, installed on all levels," Supt Dewberry said.
"FRNSW also recommends that, if people in the home sleep with their bedroom doors shut, they fit an extra alarm in their rooms.
"With the community pulling out their winter appliances we also want people to take the time to check the operation of their electric blankets, heaters and clothes dryers."
More information, including a home fire safety checklist, is available on the FRNSW website: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=879 [external link]
EDITOR'S NOTE: Additional images related to this incident are accessible via the FRNSW website.
Updated: 08 May 2023 10:23am
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.
The best way to keep you and your family safe is to prevent fires from occurring and know what to do in case of a fire.
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].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
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