Blanket blamed for blaze

AN electric blanket that was left on has been found to be the cause of a fire that completely destroyed a Bridgewater home this week.

Emergency services crews rushed to the scene in Gunn St, near the intersection of Eddington St, on Tuesday afternoon.

Damage was extensive to the weatherboard property, which was believed to be home to two adults and five children.

A Tasmania Fire Service spokeswoman said the fire was caused by a build-up of heat due to an electric blanket being left on.

“People are reminded not to leave electric blankets on for an extended period of time or leave items sitting on the bed, and turn them off when getting into bed as they can catch alight if the heat builds up,’’ she said.

An estimated damage bill has not been put.