Lucky escape for family after house fire

A family and their pet dog had a lucky escape after a severe fire at their home in Shrewton on Sunday morning (28 September).

Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service was called to the property, in Upper Back Lane, at 6.20am after one of the occupants woke to go to work and was confronted by thick smoke and a well established fire.

All three people in the bungalow were able to escape before fire crews arrived, but one suffered from smoke inhalation and all three went to hospital for a precautionary check-up.

Firefighters from Amesbury, Wilton and Salisbury attended the scene, supported by specialist units from Warminster and Devizes. One main jet, two hose reel jets and four breathing apparatus wearers were used to tackle the blaze, which resulted in the complete loss of the bungalow roof and most of the property’s contents. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

The Red Cross fire and emergency victim support unit attended the scene and was able to supply the occupants with showering facilities and much needed clothing – because the family had been forced to evacuate their home so quickly, they hadn’t had time to dress.

Group Manager Iain Hunter said: “Unfortunately, the bungalow was not fitted with a smoke detector, which would have alerted the family to the fire at an early stage. A working domestic smoke detector correctly fitted will give early detection and alarm to fire and will greatly contribute toward reducing injuries and fire damage.”

After putting out the fire, the attending fire crews took the opportunity to visit neighbouring properties and carried out several home fire safety checks, giving fire safety advice to the occupiers.

For an on-line home fire safety check and a range of home fire safety advice, visit www.wiltsfire.gov.uk

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