Tip to prevent TV fires – turn off before turning in

Residents should turn their televisions off at the wall or the set before going to bed to reduce the risk of fire.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts told State Parliament today the according to Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS), 67 fires over the last five years were due to overheating TVs.

“One simple ways to do to prevent a serious house fire or loss of valuable possessions is to turn their television off correctly,” Mr Roberts said.

“Unfortunately, the rate of these incidents has been increasing with 16 cases last financial year and eight since July this year.”

“Fires started by televisions represent almost 15% of electrical fires recorded by the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service.”

“For increased safety, residents should turn their television off at the set or the wall and not by remote control. They should not leave it on standby, even overnight, as this can lead to overheating.”

“When it comes to TVs in the home, people should be turning off before turning in.”

Mr Roberts said another tip for residents was to not cover ventilation sections on the back or side of the television as this may prevent the cooling mechanism from working effectively and may cause the television to overheat.

“Another important tip is to not overload powerpoints. This is a particular problem around the television and stereo areas,” Mr Roberts said.

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 0418 197 350