Fire and Emergency NZ is warning people to use electric blankets and heaters correctly, following the death of an elderly man in an Admore house fire last Wednesday.
The remains of an electric blanket were found in a chair at the scene of the fire, and Fire NZ has identified this as the most likely cause of the fire.
The man was known to wrap the electric blanket around himself to relieve his back pain.
The remains of a second electric blanket and an electric heater were also found in the ruins of the fire.
There was no working smoke alarm in the house.
In the last year there have been 105 heater fires and nine electric blanket fires recorded by Fire NZ.
Fire NZ national advisor for fire risk management Peter Gallagher said the man's death is a reminder for the public to take care when heating during the winter.
"Our advice to people is observe the heater metre rule. Keep furniture, clothes and children at least one metre away from heaters and fireplaces," he said.
Fire NZ's advice for people who use electric blankets:
- They should be placed on flat beds
- Make sure controls and cords aren't twisted or caught between the mattress and base of the bed
- At the first sign of wear electric blankets should be checked by a qualified electrician
Mr Gallagher also urged everyone to check they have working smoke alarms.
"Smoke alarms provide early warning of fires and give people time to address the issue or safely get out of buildings."
Newshub.
