As the colder weather sets in, RACT Insurance is reminding Tasmanians to be vigilant when
heating their homes this winter following an increase in major house fires.
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers said a review of claims data for the winter months showed
that fire related claims increased 22 per cent in 2017 against 2016, with wood heaters being
responsible for 32 per cent of these.
“We found that over half of these fires were caused by inattention or accident, like logs falling
out of the fireplace or not closing the door properly. The remainder were caused by poor
maintenance, which is concerning as there were a number of total house losses which may
have been prevented,” said Mr Sayers.
“Of course, we see house fires occurring throughout the year, but the increased use of heating
in the cooler months does increase the risk.
“New RACT Insurance market research also found that 60 per cent of Tasmanians don’t have
an emergency evacuation plan set up in case of fire.
“When we consider this against our claims data, this statistic is very concerning.
“It is vital the whole household know what to do in the event of a fire at home. Don’t leave it until
the fire takes hold to realise that you don’t know what your escape route is, or where the family
should reunite once you are all safely clear of the fire.
“Prevention is of course the best way of keeping your home safe and we urge Tasmanians to
have their chimneys and flues cleaned regularly and check smoke alarms are working. You
don’t want to find out your smoke alarm isn’t working when a fire breaks out.
“It’s advisable to check your smoke alarm once a month and replace batteries annually. You
could lose everything in minutes so it pays to be proactive.”
Mr Sayers said RACT Insurance claims data also revealed electrical faults caused 28 per cent
of winter house fires and cooking 18 per cent.
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“The electrical fault fire were linked with appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines
and dryers and likely due to increased use over winter with many of us spending more time at
home,” he said.
“Luckily, these fires tend to be localised as people are usually at home when these fires break
out, but it does highlight the importance of regular checks on your appliances.
“Make sure the lint filter on your dryer is cleaned regularly, ideally after every load and make
regular checks to power cords for any damage or fraying and unplug appliances immediately if
necessary.
“With the 18 per cent of winter home fires caused by cooking, again we found inattention was a
major factor. People should never leave cooking unattended and always keep a fire extinguisher
or fire blanket close by just in case.”
For advice on how to stay fire safe this winter, visit www.fire.tas.gov.au or free call 1800 000
699 for additional information about fire safety in the home.
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers