By Dominique Tassell
A Glen Aplin resident was transported to hospital on 18 August after a kerosene heater exploded in her home.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire just before 7:30pm.
Two fire crews attended the scene on Cavallaro Road in Glen Aplin, most likely from station 25 in Stanthorpe.
A representative from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) stated that the fire was out a few minutes after they arrived.
“It was nothing too major,” they stated.
Queensland Ambulance Services were on the scene, and transported a female resident of the home to Stanthorpe Hospital.
The woman had reportedly tried to put the fire out herself, and was taken to hospital for smoke inhalation.
QFES remained on the scene until just after 8pm, when they left the scene in the hands of the owner.
QFES states that you should always position clothes, newspapers, kindling, and other flammable materials at least one metre from any heater.
They also recommend you ensure only the approved fuel is used in liquid-fuelled heaters.
It is recommended that you choose a portable heater that has an automatic safety switch that turns the heater off if tipped over.
Turning off your heater when going to bed or leaving the house is also important, as is positioning portable heaters away from areas of heavy traffic.
QFES recommends having fire safety products in your home.
“Fire blankets and fire extinguishers can be helpful in putting out a minor fire.“
