While the cause of the house fires on Field Place and Mansfield Avenue are still being determined by forensic investigators, Inspector Emery said it was a stark reminder for everyone to be fire safe.

With the rate of house fires increasing by around thirty four percent during the winter months, he said there are a few key things to remember.

"We haven't had many fires in Griffith recently apart from the last two, which shows people are being vigilant," he said.

With a third of all injuries in NSW resulting from fires starting in the kitchen, he says to not forget: "keep looking while you're cooking".

And as the cold weather putting a dampener on the ability for people to dry clothes outside, there is the alluring appeal of drying in front of the heater.

"But always remember - keep a meter from the heater," he explained, which not only goes for clothes, but other items as well.

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Bringing outdoor appliances that use gas, like outdoor heaters or BBQs, inside can also be extremely hazardous.

"We have had a few fires, not recently in Griffith though, where people are cooking or heating with LPG cylinders inside.

"People say, oh I'll bring that into the house, but the fumes can leak, be toxic, and cause fires."

While Inspector Emery said most of the tips are maintenance related, like cleaning lint from filters, not overloading power boards and turning off electric blankets, what is extremely vital is for every single house to have a working smoke alarm.

Make sure to follow the fire safety tips below:

"We find that there's a surge in winter, but of course maintain that vigilance throughout the year," Inspector Emery concluded.

For more information, or to get assistance with your smoke alarm, visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au.

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