Solar panel fire - Forster
Published: 11 Sep 2020 12:09pm
Just after midday today Fire and Rescue NSW received multiple Triple Zero (000) calls to a unit fire in Churchill Rd, Forster.
Crews from Forster and Taree Fire Stations arrived on scene and discovered a fire that had started after solar panels on the roof of the home caught alight.
Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire and no one was injured as a result.
Superintendent Adam Dewberry from Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) said it was important to take steps to ensure solar panels were as safe as possible.
"Over the last five years we have seen solar panel related fires increase five-fold. It is not uncommon to see solar panels cause house and building fires," he said.
“By ensuring solar panels are installed by a licensed installer, and are well maintained by a professional, you can prevent a tragedy."
For more information on solar panel safety, visit the Fair Trading website.
Updated: 30 Jan 2023 09:15pm
Related safety topics
It“s the law to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home.
Having a home escape plan and a working smoke alarm increases your chances of getting out safely.
The best way to keep you and your family safe is to prevent fires from occurring and know what to do in case of a fire.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
Stations nearby
22 Lake Street, Forster NSW 2428
75 Pulteney St Cnr Wynter Street, Taree NSW 2430
22 Farquhar Street, Wingham NSW 2429