A man who died in a house fire in Christchurch last week couldn't get out because his doors were deadlocked, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) confirmed on Thursday.
The 55-year-old was alerted to the fire by working smoke alarms, but his keys weren't easily accessible.
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FENZ says it highlights the need for household escape plans, and to leave keys in locks while at home.
The agency says it's not easy to think clearly in a fire. FENZ national risk reduction manager Roxanne Hilliard said people become unable to see and also get disorientated.
"When you're at home keys should be left in the lock so you can get out safely."
The fire happened two days before a large gas explosion injured six people in the Christchurch suburb of Northwood.
A house was completely destroyed and several others issued with dangerous building notices by the Christchurch City Council.
Newshub.
