Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fatal house fire last night at Goonellabah.

Nine fire trucks, from Goonellabah, Lismore, Alstonville and Coraki fire stations arrived at the Dudley Drive address just after 6.30pm and found the home fully involved in fire.

Flames, heavy smoke and a collapsing roof initially prevented firefighters from entering the house.

As soon as crews gained control of the blaze, firefighters forced their way inside and located the body of a woman.

Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) experts are working at the scene of the blaze today, trying to confirm how the fire started.

They will also try to determine whether a smoke alarm, possibly compromised by the roof collapse, activated during the fire.

The number of people killed in residential fires in NSW this winter now stands at 15 from 12 incidents, 11 more fatalities than the total for winter last year.

FRNSW is reminding the public to check on friends, relatives and neighbours living alone to ensure their smoke alarms are in working order.

Working smoke alarms save lives.

For expert assistance in safeguarding your home, contact FRNSW to discuss booking a fire safety visit: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=9316

If you don’t have smoke alarms installed, the FRNSW crews can fit them for you.

FRNSW advises the public to:

·      Check and maintain smoke alarms once installed;

·      Keep any drying clothes or anything flammable at least a metre from the heater;

·      Clean and maintain any fireplaces;

·      Do not use outdoor heating or cooking equipment inside your home;

·      Check electric blankets are safe for use and never go to bed or leave home with your electric blanket on;

·      Do not overheat wheat bags in the microwave;

·      Do not overload power boards;

·      Clean the lint filter from your clothes dryer after each use;

·      Never leave cooking unattended;

·      Always use candles under adult supervision and do not leave them unattended where possible;

·      Ensure you have a ‘home fire escape plan” and practice it regularly with your family; and

·      If a fire does occur, get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).