Northern Territory Fire and Rescue crews responded to a report of a unit fire in East Side at 11:20pm last night.
Fire and Rescue Southern Command Manager David Letheby said when crews arrived they were confronted with a two storey unit engulfed in flames.
“The crews quickly contained the fire to the lounge room, but the unit suffered extensive smoke and heat damage.
“It is believed that the fire started in the kitchen with a burning saucepan of cooking oil. The occupant attempted to extinguish the fire and as a last resort, carried the burning pot out of the kitchen, where it was accidently dropped onto a lounge chair.
“The fire then quickly spread and the occupant and her small child evacuated the residence. The woman suffered burns to her hands, the child sustained no injuries.
“It is a timely reminder that a fire blanket, wet tea towel or a saucepan lid could have extinguished the fire. The use of water or moving the pot is highly discouraged,” said Mr Letheby.
A demonstration on how to extinguish a kitchen fire can be seen at the Alice Springs Rural Volunteer Brigade on Saturday 7 November.
The Volunteer Brigade located on the Ross Highway, is having an open day to celebrate their 20th anniversary. Members of the public are invited down from 10:00am until 4:00pm with plenty of demonstrations and fun activities for the kids.
A volunteer community educator will also be available to answer all questions on fire safety.
