Firefighters carried an unconscious man to safety from a burning home at Engadine, in Sydney's south, last night.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews were called to a house on fire in Dobell Road at 6.30 pm. Neighbors told firefighters a man was inside the burning, single-level home.
crew commenced emergency care
Firefighters quickly doused flames, which were leaping out of the front windows, then forced entry
Firefighters quickly doused flames, which were leaping out of the front windows, then forced entry through the secured front door. They searched and found the man unconscious inside.
The first responders carried the resident to an area outside, where another crew commenced emergency care, including CPR. Ambulance paramedics arrived a short time later, taking over treatment.
FRNSW specialist fire investigators
The man, believed aged in his late 70's, in a critical condition, was transported to hospital by a NSW Ambulance rescue helicopter. FRNSW specialist fire investigators and an ignitable liquid detection canine attended the scene with NSW Police last night.
The fire is not being treated as suspicious. It is likely to have been caused by a heater too close to furnishings in the home. Investigations are continuing. At this stage, there is no evidence that the home was fitted with a working smoke alarm.
FRNSW flammable materials
Superintendent Adam Dewberry, from FRNSW, said the firefighters did a remarkable job, quickly climbing a steep driveway with about 30 kg of protective clothing and equipment to fight the fire and reach the occupant.
FRNSW urges the public to ensure their homes are fitted with working smoke alarms to avoid tragedy this winter. Keep flammable materials at least a meter from any heater to prevent a fire.
