Fire authorities are warning people to check their heaters and appliances, with the start of winter. They say Queenslanders need to be more vigilant in the cooler season.

Samantha Cheney reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services are urging people to check their appliances including all heating devices.

Insp Kevin Reading, Hendra Fire Station: “In Queensland last year, 541 fires started in the winter months. 171 of them were in Brisbane.”

And he says it’s not just about having a fire alarm but also having a fifteen second evacuation plan.

Although winter officially begins today, there’s been little sign of it so far but experts say that’s about to change.

Tony Auden, 7 News Meteorologist: “Overall, apart from the rain, we’re looking at conditions getting a little bit cooler and closer to average, probably just above average right on the coast, and close to average inland, as a result of that extra cloud from the rainfall. So it’s definitely going to feel cooler, we’ve had a very very warm autumn.”

Today also marks the first day of winter mid-season sales.

It’s been a mild lead up to winter, but retailers are confident the cooler conditions will boost sales.

Dominique Lamb, National Retail Association: “Retailers are effectively planning about 12-18 months out for seasons. Most of the time they’re very aware of seasonally warm winter periods, and they will only stock a certain amount of winter clothes.”

So get ready to grab a bargain and snap up your winter warmers now.

Samantha Cheney, QUT News.