A Point Cook resident returned from buying lunch on Sunday to find his house destroyed by fire.
Firefighters from Point Cook and Hoppers Crossing were called to the Foxwood Drive house about 12.40pm.
Point Cook senior station officer Steve Attard said the fire had posed a threat to neighbouring properties, with wind making it difficult to contain the blaze.
He said damage to the house was so extensive that it “would need to come down”.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
Mr Attard said while the house’s occupants were out at the time of the fire, it provided a timely reminder for people to check their smoke alarm batteries and create a fire evacuation plan.
Latest CFA figures reveal that Wyndham crews were called to 86 house fires last year, up from 77 in 2012.
“People should practise their evacuation drills and make sure there are no blocked exits,” Mr Attard said. “People should ensure that deadlocks aren’t locked while they’re home.”
CFA deputy chief officer Steve Warrington said residents should change their smoke alarm batteries at the end of daylight saving on April 6.
He recommended that residents check their smoke alarms each month and vacuum around smoke alarm vents once a year.
“Smoke alarms are crucial in giving you and your family the early warning needed to escape a fire,’’ Mr Warrington said.
‘‘When it comes to protecting your family and yourself, a working smoke alarm tested regularly and a rehearsed home escape plan are easy tasks to ensure everyone in the family is given plenty of warning and knows what to do should a fire occur.”
» Fire safety checklist: bit.ly/1hqY76d
