BY JARROD MELMETH
More than 20 firefighters are on the scene of a house fire at Louth Park, near Maitland which broke out just before 9am.
Firefighters found smoke and flames coming through the roof of the single-storey home.
Crews have been working on the blaze for more than an hour, however the home has been significantly damaged.
Fire & Rescue NSW have confirmed that all residents have been safely evacuated.
It's believed the fire started as a result of solar panels that were attached to the home.
Superintendent Graham Kingsland from the Fire Investigations and Research Unit said it was important to take steps to ensure solar panels were as safe as possible.
"Over the last five years we have seen solar panel related fires
increase five-fold. It is not uncommon to see solar panels cause house and
building fires," he said.
“By ensuring solar panels are installed by a licensed installer, and are
well maintained by a professional, you can prevent a tragedy," Supt Kingsland said.
