SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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CFS warns of dangers of bar heaters

21/06/2013

SA Country Fire Service (CFS) firefighters responded to a house fire in Keith just after 4.30am this morning, which was caused by a bar heater.

The fire cause investigation has revealed that a bar heater placed near a child's bed was left on over-night, which ignited clothing and bedding in the early hours of the morning.

CFS State Coordinator Mark Thomason says this is a warning to people using home heating devices.

"There were two adults and two children home at the time the fire started, and we are very lucky that there were no injuries or loss of life," State Coordinator Thomason said.

"It is critical that heating devices are not placed close any combustible materials such as bedding or clothing, which can ignite when over-heated.

"This incident serves as a warning to the community that heaters must be kept well clear of anything that can burn."

CFS appliances from Keith, Laffer and Bordertown arrived on Gill Road in Keith to find the house fully involved in fire.

20 firefighters attended the old stone, single story house and worked to contain the blaze but during firefighting operations, the roof collapsed and the majority of the house was destroyed.

Damage to the property has been up-graded to $200,000.

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Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia