By Brendan Rees
Firefighters have quelled a fire in the roof of a Hampton Park home which was caused by an electrical fault on Sunday evening, 21 June.
Four fire trucks from Hampton Park, Narre Warren and Hallam were called to the scene at Ungarie Court about 8.40pm.
Luckily, all occupants had evacuated and damage was limited to part of the roof.
According to Hampton Park fire brigade first lieutenant Chris Gomolis an electrical spark from a transformer connected to an old downlight is believed to have started the blaze.
He said the male occupant of the home had called an electrician after noticing a safety switch tripping.
But while the electrician was on scene, insulation in the roof began to smoulder.
“The electrician attempted to put it out, was unsuccessful and that’s when they called us,” Mr Gomolis said.
The fire was brought under control within 40 minutes after power was cut to the property.
Crews also used a thermal imaging camera to pinpoint the location of the blaze in the roof.
“There was absolute minimal flame but a high presence of heat,” Mr Gomolis said. “The way insulation burns it smokes more than anything.
“Any fire in a roof space is always difficult because you can’t see the full extent of the spread when it comes to insulation.”
Mr Gomolis said the resident and the electrician escaped without injury – however crews were “very quick” to notice the home’s fitted smoke alarm did not have a battery and informed the owner.
Crews remained on scene for about an hour.
As winter officially sets CFA is urging people to consider their fire safety and assess any potential risks around their home.
CFA deputy chief officer Trevor Owen said winter is the highest risk period for residential fires due to the increased use of heating equipment.
Heating equipment included fixed electrical and gas powered appliances, an open fire, wood heater and portable electrical heaters or those which use gas or kerosene.
Mr Owen said poorly maintained gas fires could cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
“We have seen the tragic consequences of this in the past,” he said.
“There can be no greater reason to have your gas heater inspected and serviced than to ensure the safety of loved ones.
“Another common mistake is people drying clothes indoors near heaters and fireplaces, which can be dangerous. Clothes should be kept at least one metre from the heat source.”
