Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters have rescued a man from a burning home in Orange, in the state’s central tablelands.
FRNSW crews from Orange and Bathurst responded to the fire shortly before 3.00 a.m., after reports that flames could be seen coming through the windows of the Icely Road home.
FRNSW crews respond to house fire in Orange
Crews arrived to find the single level home well alight and immediately set about tackling the blaze. During a rapid search of the home, firefighters located an unconscious male in a living area, and immediately dragged him to safety.
Crews provided medical assistance, performing CPR alongside NSW Ambulance. The man was transported to hospital in a critical condition. Early reports suggest that the home did not have a working smoke alarm.
Importance of working smoke alarms in homes
Inspector Dane Philippe said this is the second home to be devastated by fire in central NSW
FRNSW Region West Duty Commander, Inspector Dane Philippe said this is the second home to be devastated by fire in central NSW in the past two days, and almost a year ago to the day of a fatal house fire in Orange.
“We are urging residents to ensure they have at least one working smoke alarm in their home,” said Inspector Philippe, adding “Unfortunately, this home has been destroyed and a male resident has sustained significant injuries. Our aim is to prevent this from happening to anyone else.”
He continues, “We cannot stress enough the importance of having a working smoke alarm.”
Cause of the fire is under investigation
The cause of the fire is under investigation by NSW Police and FRNSW. Last winter, nearly half (49%) of the 1080 homes that were impacted by fire did not have a working smoke alarm, or any alarm, in place.
Members of the public can book a fire safety visit from local fire crews, which involves a home inspection, safety advice and if required, installation of a new, 10-year smoke alarm, free of charge.
