A house in Alice Springs was completely destroyed by fire yesterday evening when the ceiling space ignited into flames.

Police and Fire crews attended the house in Nardoo Court around 7:00 pm last night, by which time, the home was already engulfed in flames.

District Officer David Letheby from the Southern Fire Service said Alice Springs Fire and Rescue members responded with four fire vehicles and 15 Firefighters to control the blaze.

“There are initial indications that the fire started near the flu of a combustion stove heater which was alight at the time, causing boxes and belongings to ignite in the ceiling,” said District Officer Letheby.

“There were six occupants in the house at the time, when one of the family members noticed flames in the roof and evacuated the home.

“A man attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose until Firefighters arrived and controlled the blaze.

“Neighbouring residents were evacuated from their homes as a precautionary measure.

“The family is extremely lucky to escape unharmed in this situation. If the fire had started while they had been asleep, it could have been a potentially fatal outcome.

“This highlights the importance of smoke alarms in saving both lives and properties and contacting 000 in the event of an emergency.”