FIRE crews have praised a passer-by who kicked in the back door of a burning Seabrook unit and rescued its two occupants.
A tradesman travelling through Mark Court forced his way in to alert the sleeping tenants after he noticed smoke billowing from the unit about 8.30am last Friday.
The two-bedroom unit was destroyed, leaving a damages bill of more than $250,000.
An Ambulance Victoria spokesman said the rescuer suffered minor injuries and one of the residents suffered smoke inhalation. Both were taken to The Alfred hospital.
Metropolitan Fire Brigade commander Bill Weir said 16 firefighters helped Point Cook CFA battle the blaze.
“The residents didn’t awake from the flames and didn’t have a working smoke alarm, so if it wasn’t for the quick access of the tradesman, we wouldn’t be so lucky.”
Investigators said the fire was caused by a coiled heater lead left beneath bedding.
MFB fire investigator Michelle McKay said this was a timely reminder for winter.
“It’s important when using heaters and other appliances, such as electric blankets, to ensure cords are fully extended and don’t have clothing or bedding resting on them.”
For more fire safety tips, visit mfb.vic.gov.au.
