Electric heater sparks Hoppers Crossing house fire

This Warringa Crescent property was left badly damaged by fire after an electric heater was left on, unattended. Picture courtesy of Hoppers Crossing Fire Brigade.

Residents have been warned not to leave electric heaters turned on and unattended, following a house fire earlier this week.

Hoppers Crossing and Point Cook fire brigades were called out to the fire, which started in the bedroom of a Warringa Crescent property in Hoppers Crossing, just after 6pm on Wednesday.

Fire crews said the fire was quickly spreading.

Hoppers Crossing 1st Lieutenant Paul DiMartino said 22 firefighters brought the fire under control, containing it to the bedroom and its close surroundings. However, the entire house was smoke damaged.

Two police units and an ambulance were also in attendance.

Mr DiMartino said the owner of the house advised CFA crews that he had left the electric heater on and unattended in the bedroom. When he returned the room was on fire. No one was hurt or injured in the blaze.

“This is a good reminder to all that you shouldn’t leave portable heaters unattended or clothes hanging to dry too close to heaters and open fires,” he said.