Fire and Rescue NSW investigators said a faulty electric blanket was the cause of a fatal house fire that caused the death of a 73-year-old woman, who lived alone, at the land lease community.

Neighbours at the 184-units Palm Lake Resort Yambav carried the woman out of the burning, single-level home just after 9pm.

Firefighters and NSW Ambulance paramedics, at the front of the property, tried in vain to revive the unconscious woman, who had suffered smoke inhalation.

Experts from the FRNSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit examined the scene and said that a faulty electric blanket started the blaze. The home was fitted with a smoke alarm but it has not been ascertained if it was working.

Fire investigator, Inspector Chris Hughes, said it is essential to check electric blankets for worn out or bent wiring.

The SOURCE: An avoidable tragedy. Please check residents’ electric blankets