A Tatura family narrowly avoided disaster after bedlinen left too close to a wood heater caught fire, damaging much of their home.
The family had stepped out to a shed when smoke alarms alerted them. The fire burned through blankets before hitting the floor and spreading into the living room.
Tatura Fire Brigade Captain and Incident Controller Peter Bevan hoped this common incident reminds residents to keep items drying at least one metre away from all heating sources.
CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria responded to over 150 heater fires in less than a year, with most starting in sleeping or living areas.
Authorities recommend turning off heaters when unattended and servicing gas appliances every two years.
