Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service are reminding people to remain vigilant when cooking after seeing a spike in kitchen fires over the last six weeks. 

Fire Investigator Tony Miles said a number of the cooking fires have been related to inattention and people falling asleep when cooking. 

“Fortunately, we did not see serious loss of property during these incidents; however, fires can spread rapidly once started so it is important to undertake measures that will prevent fires from occurring.

“Do not leave cooking unattended at any time. Always keep an eye on ignition sources because a second of inattention can lead to serious consequences. Always make sure ovens and cooktops are cleaned and serviced on a regular basis to avoid fat and oil deposits catching alight.

“Smoke alarms provided early warning of fires, reducing the risk of significant structural damage. 

“In the NT, it is a requirement that all residential properties are fitted with working photoelectric smoke detectors. The age of the building will determine whether the smoke alarm needs to be hard wired or a battery operated device. Fact sheets about smoke alarms can be found on the PFES website,” he said.

Firefighters have also been kept busy attending grass fires caused by embers escaping from burn piles in the rural area. 

Permits to burn ended on 4 May 2020 so all burn piles must now be fully extinguished and cool to touch. No more permits will be issued this season. Now is the time to make sure all fire breaks are completed and bushfire survival plans are in place.   

Further information on fire safety in the home, permits to burn, and bushfire survival plans can be found on the PFES website at https://pfes.nt.gov.au/fire-and-rescue-service.