Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators have determined that a faulty electric blanket was the cause of a fatal house fire last night at Yamba, on the state's north coast.
Neighbors at the retirement village in Orion Drive carried a woman, believed to be 73 years old, out of the burning, single-level home just after 9 pm.
Firefighters and NSW Ambulance Paramedics, at the front of the property, tried in vain to revive the unconscious woman, who had suffered smoke inhalation.
Fire crews
Fire crews from Yamba, Maclean, and Grafton extinguished the blaze while Police sealed the scene
Fire crews from Yamba, Maclean, and Grafton extinguished the blaze while Police sealed the scene for further analysis.
Experts from the FRNSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) examined the scene and determined that a faulty electric blanket started the blaze.
Firefighters say the home was fitted with a smoke alarm, but they're not certain it was working. Fire investigator, Inspector Chris Hughes, has reminded the public to use extreme caution when using electric blankets this winter.
Electric blankets
"It's essential that you check any electric blankets for worn-out or bent wiring," Inspector Hughes said. "If the blanket's been compromised electrically, don't take any chances.”
"If there's brown scorching on the blanket or a frayed power cord, then throw it out and replace it," he added. "It's also crucial to remember that electric blankets should not remain on all night...use them to warm your bed and switch them off to reduce the fire risk."
