Lucky escape for elderly resident

Appliances from Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to a fire by neighbours in Okus Road, Swindon. The fire was attended by crews from Swindon, Westlea and Stratton St Margaret. On arrival the Crew were confronted with a severe fire in the kitchen area. The fire was quickly brought under control by Fire-fighters using Breathing Apparatus, hose reels and ventilation fans.

The occupier had discovered the fire and was able to leave the building before the Fire Service arrived. He did, however, suffer from smoke inhalation and for which he was treated by an ambulance crew at the scene.

A Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service spokesman said that the owner was lucky to discover the fire when he did as it was a rapidly developing fire. If he had discovered the fire any later he may not have been able to get out. The house was not fitted with smoke detectors, which would have provided much earlier warning of the fire and allow the occupant to get out much more quickly.

Wiltshire Fire and Rescue will carry out a free Home Fire Safety Check and fit free smoke detectors to those most vulnerable in our society. If you would like a Home Fire Safety Check then you can contact the Community Safety Team on our free phone number 0800 389 7849.

The fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.

Duty Press Officer
01380 731130

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