Police and emergency services received numerous 000 calls from neighbours at 2.30pm on Sunday, February 25, that the house at 29 Isobel Street was being engulfed by flames. 

Narooma police said a woman and her five children were able to escape to a neighbour’s house just before the fire spread to all the rooms.

Neighbours on Isabel Street were shocked to see how quickly the flames spread.

 “The fire was so horrendous (the family) just got out in time before it went up in flames,” said one neighbour living directly next door, who was able to take photos of the fire.

The cause of the fire will be the subject of a joint Coroner’s investigation by police and NSW Fire & Rescue but police were told the fire started in a children’s room, possibly from a candle or incense holder.

Narooma Fire & Rescue brigade Captain Scott Dawson said he and his firefighters arrived within about five minutes of receiving the 000 call.

But even so, the fire took hold quickly entering the ceiling and destroying all the rooms with the roof partially collapsed.

Also attending were the Narooma and Dalmeny Kianga RFS brigades and NSW Ambulance paramedics.

Mr Dawson said while the cause of the fire would be the subject of an inquiry, he urged parents not to leave children unattended with the fires or lit objects.

A burning mosquito coil or other smouldering item is believed to have been responsible for another fire that partially destroyed another Narooma house only two weeks ago. 

With winter approaching, Mr Dawson said everyone should check their heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves were functioning safely before switching them on or lighting up.

The end of daylight saving was also coming up at the end of the month and this was the advertised time to check smoke alarm batteries, he said.