Blaze destroys family home in Wattle Glen

 

More than 80 firefighters battled a house which was engulfed in flames in Wattle Glen last week.

 

Twenty-two CFA units responded to the large house fire on Pretty Hill Lane around 4.30am on Thursday, 19 June. On arrival, the house was well alight.

Wattle Glen Fire Brigade and Diamond Creek Fire Brigade were first on scene, and quickly requested additional support, including neighbouring brigades for water supply and extra breathing apparatus.

Thankfully, the occupants had working smoke alarms and had evacuated before crews arrived. They were assessed by paramedics after sustaining minor injuries.

The fire is believed to have started in a storage area beneath the home. The cause remains unknown but is not considered suspicious.

The fire was declared under control by approximately 7am, with crews remaining on scene until around 3pm. Sadly, the house was destroyed.

Captain David Rueter described it as a mammoth effort by everyone involved.

“All crews put in 110% on a complex house fire, working hard to get it safe and under control,” said David.

“There were a number of challenges, the first being water needed for the size of the fire so we called in additional support.

“The structure had also collapsed, and we needed to call in excavators to remove the corrugated iron roof before we could fully extinguish the fire.”

David said the incident serves as a strong reminder about the importance of smoke alarms this winter.

“I know it’s something we always say, but people must ensure they have working smoke alarms in their homes,” David said.

“Make sure they’re installed in bedrooms, hallways and living areas. The sooner you're alerted to a fire, the more time you have to make a safe escape.”

 

Submitted by	Courtney Walker