RACQ has issued a warning to Queensland residents to be aware of home fire hazards, as recent insurance data shows electrical faults are the leading cause of house fires.
Paul Goan, general manager property and niche claims at RACQ, said the insurer received 232 house fire claims over the past year, with 27% stemming from electrical issues.
Goan pointed to lithium-ion batteries left to charge for prolonged periods as a major cause of house fires as they can explode due to overcharging or defects.
“We’re also seeing kitchen malfunctions, faults in camper fridges, and even overheating wheat heat packs in microwaves as some of the causes for house fires,” he said. “Candles are another common cause, particularly ones that have been left near open windows where they can be blown over or knocked by curtains.”
Over the past three years, RACQ has processed 705 house fire claims in Queensland, totalling $47.7 million in damages.
According to RACQ’s research, 61% of Queenslanders admitted they do not have an evacuation plan, and 68% do not have an evacuation kit ready.
Goan offered several fire safety tips for homeowners.
“Check all of your electronics to ensure they are working properly, that you are using the correct charger, and remember to unplug your chargers before you go to bed or leave the house,” he said. “You should also make it your priority to test your smoke alarms, discuss a fire evacuation plan with your household, and pack an evacuation kit.”
He also advised Queenslanders to review their insurance policies.
“Household fires can be devastating, and the last thing you want to be worrying about is whether you’re covered,” he said. “Of those surveyed, 45% hadn’t checked their sum insured value in the past 12 months.
“RACQ covers household fires as standard, but it’s important to choose a sum insured amount that is enough to cover the cost to rebuild your home and replace your contents if they are destroyed.”
RACQ is also urging motorists to prioritise safety amid a rise in rider deaths across the state’s roads.
