“We are asking residents to be aware of fire safety within their home,” RFS MIA zone manager Kevin Adams said. “House fires can occur to anybody at any time, but if properly prepared, tragedy can be avoided.

“Simple steps such as installation of smoke alarms, regularly checking batteries, and the existence of an evacuation plan and meeting point could mean the difference between life and death.

“It is essential residents regularly test smoke alarms to ensure they are in working order.

“We strongly recommend a fire evacuation plan be in place in the home and that all occupants of the home are well rehearsed in it and know where their meeting place is.

“A meeting place instantly assists any emergency service that arrives on the scene, as occupants of the house can be accounted for.

“Items such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets are also valuable fire defence tools, however, residents should not risk harm to themselves if the fire is beyond the use of these.

“The ignition of many houses is preventable. Carry out regular checks on your electrical appliances, turn off electric blankets and electric heaters when not in use,

use ember guards on wood-fired heaters, and dispose of the hot ash properly.”