- Published:
- Monday 15 June 2026 at 11:31 am
Victorians are being prompted to check their heaters before winter sets in, with faulty or poorly maintained heating appliances posing serious fire and health risks.
As temperatures drop and households switch heaters on for the first time in months, Energy Safe Victoria is reminding people that some heating hazards can be difficult to detect, including invisible and odourless carbon monoxide (CO).
In the last two years, Energy Safe has received nearly 50 reports of safety incidents and issues involving home gas and electrical heaters, or heating appliances.
Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said early winter was the time when hidden faults and unsafe heating habits often emerged.
“Many people don’t think twice about turning a heater back on after months of sitting unused, but early winter is when underlying faults and safety issues can start to show up,” Ms Hughson said.
“Gas heaters should be serviced by a licensed gasfitter at least every two years, as the carbon monoxide they can emit can’t be seen or smelled and people may not realise there’s a problem until they become unwell.”
Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and fatigue, and can often be mistaken for flu-like symptoms.
In the past 12 months, Energy Safe has been notified of seven fires involving electric blankets, including one in March 2026 that destroyed the master bedroom and damaged other areas of an Inverloch home after flames spread through the roof cavity.
“Electric blankets can become dangerous if they are damaged, excessively worn or left switched on for long periods,” Ms Hughson said.
“People should inspect electric blankets for signs of wear or damage before using them each winter and follow the manufacturer’s usage and cleaning instructions carefully.”
Energy Safe is reminding Victorians to:
- have an appropriately licensed and qualified gasfitter service gas heaters at least every two years
- check electric heaters and blankets for signs of damage and stop using them if cords, plugs or wiring are damaged or fabric is worn or frayed
- turn off the electric blanket once the bed is warm – never sleep with it switched on
- look for the Regulatory Compliance Mark when buying new appliances and avoid products from unknown overseas suppliers
- never use outdoor gas appliances such as patio heaters indoors
- avoid overloading power boards with multiple heating appliances
- report concerns about unsafe or faulty heaters to agents if renting.
More information about electricity and gas safety at home is available on the Energy Safe Victoria website.
Energy Safe. Always.
Media contact: April Dudgeon | 0498 188 117 | media@energysafe.vic.gov.au