Faulty electric blanket blamed for fire death - Yamba
Published: 28 Jun 2023 04:24pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators have determined that a faulty electric blanket was the cause of a fatal house fire last night at Yamba, on the state's north coast.
Neighbours at the retirement village in Orion Drive, carried a woman, believed to be 73-years-old, out of the burning, single-level home just after 9pm.
Firefighters and NSW Ambulance Paramedics, at the front of the property, tried in vain to revive the unconscious woman, who had suffered smoke inhalation.
Fire crews from Yamba, Maclean and Grafton extinguished the blaze while Police sealed the scene for further analysis.
Experts from the FRNSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) today examined the scene and determined that a faulty electric blanket started the blaze.
Firefighters say the home was fitted with a smoke alarm but they're not certain it was working.
Fire investigator, Inspector Chris Hughes, has reminded the public to use extreme caution when using electric blankets this winter.
"It's essential that you check any electric blankets for worn out or bent wiring," Inspector Hughes said.
"If the blanket's been compromised electrically, don't take any chances.
"If there's brown scorching on the blanket or a frayed power cord, then throw it out and replace it," he added.
"It's also crucial to remember that electric blankets should not remain on all night...use them to warm your bed and switch them off to reduce the fire risk."
Updated: 28 Jun 2023 04:28pm
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.
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]
Stations nearby
14 River Street, Yamba NSW 2464
251 River Street, Maclean NSW 2463
76 Woodburn Street, Evans Head NSW 2473