House fire message hits home

Fire authorities in the South West have praised the commitment of homeowners and residents after a low number of house fires so far this winter.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services figures for the Greater South West reveal just 13 reports of house fires since April 1 this year.

DFES South West superintendent Ricky Curtis said it was a good start considering there were 257 accidental house fires reported across WA last winter.

He said the house fires reported so far this season ranged in levels of damage.

"This time of year is the highest risk period for house fires," Mr Curtis said.

"Home fire safety and smoke alarm campaigns do make a difference.

"However, it requires buy-in from the homeowner or occupier and complacency can kill."

Four people died in residential house fires in WA in 2014 - one more than in 2013.

A further 15 injuries were reported in residential blazes with an estimated $13 million in damages.

Mr Curtis said he had seen a small change in residents' awareness about the danger of house fires.

"Awareness of the risks this time of year brings is certainly becoming a catalyst for action within the home," he said.

"But there is always room for continuous improvement. Don't think, 'It won't happen to me'.

"Enjoy the creature comforts but do so safely."

Bunbury fire station officer David Cameron was positive about less call-outs for house fires.

"We are still responding to regular call-outs for fires," he said.

"Around winter, we obviously usually see quite a few house fires because of heaters.

"But it amazes me how many we get called to because of fires started by candles."

Mr Cameron said smokers also needed to be vigilant because cigarettes were another major contributor to house fires.

According to DFES, the kitchen and bedroom were the most common places for house fires to start last winter.