New research found more than half of Australians are more concerned with style over safety when it comes to home design and furnishings.
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The research conducted by national insurer AAMI revealed 54 per cent of Australians admitted to having little to no concern about the fire risk of furnishings in their home, and less than half consider fire resilience in their top three priorities when it comes to building materials.
The research surveyed a nationally representative sample of 1019 Australians, and found cost, durability and style were the most important features when selecting furniture.
AAMI executive general manager of home claims Alli Smith said house fire claims spiked by almost 18 percent from Autumn to winter.
During winter, we often see an increase in house fires that can be prevented.
- Emma Fitzpatrick
Tasmania Fire Service director of community fire safety Emma Fitzpatrick said modern furnishings were more likely to be made of highly combustible materials such as synthetic foams, plastics and textiles, making house fires burn hotter and faster.
"TFS employs a range of modern firefighting techniques to fight house fires," Ms Fitzpatrick said.
"People should follow the appropriate home safety advice to prevent fires from occurring in the first place."
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She said the TFS did often see an increase in house fires that can be prevented as people spend more time at home during winter.
"Taking some simple measures to improve safety in the home can prevent most accidental house fires."
She said maintaining and installing smoke alarms in the right areas was crucial.
Ms Fitzpatrick said cooking or candles shouldn't be left unattended.
"Also, ensure lint filters in clothes dryers are cleaned after each use and run through the complete cycle so the items that are being dried can completely cool down.
"Make sure flammable items, such as woodpiles, furniture and clothes airers are kept at least two meters from heaters and fireplaces."