2015 winter the worst in years for major house fires

Claims data compiled by RACT Insurance has shown a dramatic spike in the number of major house fires across the state during the 2015 winter season.

RACT Insurance data shows that claims received due to house fires resulting in over $100,000 damage during the 2015 winter period, increased significantly on the number of claims during the same period for 2014.

RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers said the Tasmanian insurance company typically receive a small number of claims over $100,000, however the number of claims experienced over the 2015 winter period was three times higher compared to the same period last year.

“The dramatic increase is a serious concern, as it’s the worst we’ve seen in a number of years for significant house fires,” Mr Sayers said.

“A number of claims sighted the kitchen as the source of the fire and in one case, a bird’s nest in the roof was the cause of ignition.

“House fires are utterly devastating, not to mention the fact they put the homes occupants at risk of injury, or even death.

“I strongly encourage all Tasmanians to check their homes for any faults or potential hazards that could ignite a fire in the house.”

RACT Insurance research also shows that over half of Tasmanian households do not have an emergency evacuation plan in the event of a house fire.

Mr Sayers urged Tasmanians to be vigilant about house fire safety and to undertake necessary safety precautions.

“This includes having working smoke alarms, as well as devising a house fire evacuation plan and discussing with your family or housemates what actions should be taken if a house fire were to occur,” he said.

“It is concerning that most Tasmanian’s don’t have plan to evacuate their home, should a major fire start.

“Fire safety research has shown that it takes less than thirty seconds for a small flame to get completely out of control and turn into a major house fire.

“RACT Insurance data also showed 34 per cent of respondents without a fire evacuation plan do not have home insurance.

“Although not all house fires result in fatalities, they can still leave a family with nothing in the instance that the home is burnt to the ground and the home is uninsured.”

Fire safety information can be viewed at www.fire.tas.gov.au or free-call 1800 000 699
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers