Surge in winter fires sparks warning for WA households

• Western Australians urged to be on high alert for house fires
• Everyday electrical items behind some of State's most destructive blazes
• Authorities flag 25 per cent spike in residential structure fires last winter

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has released confronting vision showing how quickly household items like power boards, chargers and heaters can spark a destructive blaze, warning Western Australians to be on high alert over the coming months.

House fires during winter have been on an upward trend in recent years, spiking 25 per cent last year to 274 - or about three a day - up from 219 in 2024.

Electrical equipment and appliances were behind nearly a quarter of all house fires last winter and some of the State's most damaging blazes, while unattended cooking and items left too close to heaters were also top causes.

Lithium-ion batteries sparked 15 house fires last winter - but authorities warn fires started by other common electrical products could be just as dangerous.

Power boards, chargers, and dryers are just some of the items linked to devastating house fires across WA in recent years.

These products are generally safe, but when they are not installed, used, or maintained correctly they can pose a serious fire risk.

DFES is urging Western Australians to check their electrical goods and take some simple precautions to prevent house fires this winter.

Community members are also encouraged to test their smoke alarms and make a home fire escape plan to increase their chances of evacuating safely in an emergency.

Home fire safety checklist

• Buy and replace electrical products through trusted retailers
• Regularly check electrical items and batteries for damage and overheating
• Always use a licensed electrical contractor
• Never leave cooking unattended
• Keep all items at least one metre away from the heater

For more information, visit dfes.wa.gov.au/hazard-information/fire-in-the-home/preventing

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia:

"People tend to underestimate the terrifying speed and ferocity of a house fire, but the fact is a small blaze can engulf a room in just two minutes, leaving families with little time to escape.

"Sadly, two people have died in structure fires across Western Australia so far this year.

"The majority of house fires are preventable so it's critical the community is aware of the top causes and how to reduce their risk.

"I'd encourage Western Australians to check their smoke alarms, create a home fire escape plan, and practise it with the whole family to ensure they stay safe this winter."

Comments attributed to Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM:

"Over the past five years, winter house fires started by electrical goods have increased by more than 50 per cent.

"We want the public to be alert to the risks but not alarmed. Electrical items and batteries are generally safe provided they are purchased from a trusted retailer, installed correctly, and used and maintained properly.

"We're seeing some particularly fast-moving and destructive fires starting in areas like garages where people typically store electrical products like power tools and chargers.

"In addition to hard-wired smoke alarms in the home, I'd urge Western Australians to consider installing an interconnected heat alarm in garages and storage rooms to protect their property and loved ones."

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION