Fire investigators have been unable to determine what caused a fire which destroyed a Wanaka home last month. PHOTO: KERRIE WATERWORTH
Fire risk management officer and specialist fire investigator Marty Jillings has been investigating the fire, which broke out early on Thursday, May 20, in the house in Wilkin Rd.
Mr Jillings said with the evidence available he could not determine the cause of the fire.
He said the owner of the property told him he could not believe how fast the fire developed and it only took a matter of minutes to engulf the home.
‘‘People underestimate the speed of fire. A fire can become unsurvivable in as little as three minutes,’’ Mr Jillings said.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to have working smoke alarms in their homes, and ensure they have an escape plan in place.
