Fire guts duplex

A fire on Friday night caused about $350,000 damage to a duplex in Calythrix Avenue, Kununurra.

The fire started at about midnight and two fire crews were quickly on the scene with more volunteer firemen arriving in their own vehicles.

Fire captain Mike Cuthbertson said the volunteers had to back off after it was discovered there was live ammunition stored in the building.

At first light they resumed mopping up operations and secured the ammunition.

Mike paid tribute to the 12 volunteer fire fighters and onlookers who helped out during the night.

He said the decision to back off rather than take the chance of the ammunition going off was in recognition that life is more important than property.

Mike has again called for more people to join the Fire Brigade as numbers will be substantially reduced by Christmas.

Potential volunteers should call 9169 1340.