Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) personnel prevented a tragedy at Weston this week, thanks to a working smoke alarm and quick-thinking neighbours.
Just before 7pm on Thursday 26 June, residents in Sixth Street heard a shrill sound emanating from a nearby premises.
Realising it was a smoke alarm, and unable to contact the occupant, they immediately phoned Triple Zero (000).
Abermain firefighters arrived to find the home filled with fumes, with almost zero visibility.
Upon entering the residence, crews located a burnt-out pot on the stove.
It’s believed the dweller left meat boiling on low throughout the day… and ducked out of the house to run errands.
Duty Commander Leading Station Officer Peter Curzi credited the positive outcome to the presence of a working smoke alarm.
“FRNSW crews had installed it during a home fire safety visit only a month ago,” he explained.
“So, if you need help testing or fitting a smoke alarm, we’re here for you.
“Anyone can book a free visit through the Fire and Rescue NSW website – www.fire.nsw.gov.au/visits or by calling your local station.
“Firefighters will come to your home, provide safety advice and, if required, install a new 10-year smoke alarm at no cost.”
Duty Commander Curzi admitted the situation served as a timely reminder.
“Had neighbours not been alerted by the smoke alarm on this occasion, this could very easily have been a tragedy,” he said.
“In NSW last winter, there were 1,039 residential fires.
“And, in 44% of those cases, the home either did not have a smoke alarm or if one was present, it did not operate when the fire broke out.
“Twelve people died and 107 others were injured, too.
“In the Cessnock LGA, there were 10 residential fires last winter and, in 70% of those cases, smoke alarms were not present or did not activate.
“So, we’re urging people to avoid distractions when preparing meals and to keep looking while cooking.
“Above all, make sure you have a smoke alarm installed nearby.
“It can provide you with those crucial seconds to get everyone out of the home safely if there is a fire.”
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