The majority of house fires start because of faulty electrical appliances, according to CFA Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Peter Dedman.
Mr Dedman said most house fire risks in cold weather were related to heating.
“We’re well into the house fire season and the main risks we have revolve around people trying to keep warm,” Mr Dedman said.
“In some lower socio-economic households, we’ve seen people turn on gas ovens to keep warm.”
Mr Dedman said drying clothes too close to heaters, leaving stove tops unattended, and forgetting to clean lint out of dryers were other high risk factors that could start fires in the house.
He said the northern country district alone had already seen two fires destroy homes this season, and historically, most were caused by faulty appliances.
“In our district specifically, we’ve attended two fires that have resulted in the complete loss of a house,” Mr Dedman said.
“One of the questions we ask people is have they had any issues with electrical appliances, and you’d be surprised by how many people say ‘yes’.”
Repairing faulty equipment, cleaning flues and chimneys, and installing working smoke alarms in every bedroom and living area are some of the ways CFA recommends to keep safe and warm.
“All of it revolves around maintenance and getting things cleaned up before winter,” Mr Dedman said.
“Fires will occur in the early morning, afternoon or at night which makes smoke alarms even more critical.”
Gas heaters should also be regularly checked for risks.
Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner Michelle Young said they had seen “tragic consequences” for families.
“There should be no greater reason to have your gas heater inspected and serviced than to ensure the safety of loved ones,” she said.
“Every household should consider their fire safety practices and work to reduce the potential risks around their home, particularly when winter hits.”
Victoria’s fire services respond to more than 3000 house fires each year.