Air conditioner fires caused more than $2.5m damage this year, prompting MFS warning
THE MFS has issued a dire warning about the rise of air conditioner and fan fires going into the summer months. There have already been 17 air conditioner fires this year, causing $2.5m damage.
AIRCONDITIONER and fan fires have caused more than $2.5m damage since the start of 2018, prompting the Metropolitan Fire Service to issue a desperate call for homeowners to service air cooling equipment.
MFS personnel, along with their Country Fire Service counterparts, have responded to 17 fires across the state that were caused by faulty airconditioners, evaporative coolers or fans since January 1.
The damage bill for all the fires, in which some houses were completely gutted, is in excess of $2.5m.
MFS acting commander of community safety and resilience Vinny Schar said basic maintenance and care would have prevented many of the fires. The MFS recommends servicing of air conditioners and cooling equipment every year or after periods of no use.
“Unfortunately, some people miss or ignore the warning signs when an airconditioner or evaporative cooler begins to fail,” Mr Schar said.
“If it is making a lot of noise, keeps shutting itself down or is not operating as it should, that’s a sign you should stop using it until it’s been serviced by a qualified tradesperson.
“With spring warming up and in the lead-up to summer, it is vital air cooling equipment is serviced by a professional according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid the potential for a fire to start within your home or business.
“Ultimately, it’s about keeping those you care about safe.
“And it is important not to leave your cooling equipment running unattended while you’re not at home. Also, keep portable electrical cooling equipment away from wet areas to avoid the possibility of electric shock,” he said.
The announcement comes as temperatures across the state are set to soar today and the hot weather is already taking its toll.
From Sunday evening into Monday afternoon four houses across metropolitan Adelaide were severely damaged in separate fires.
In one fire at McLaren Flat a woman suffered serious burns and three cats are understood to have perished.