KFRS Smoke Alarm Saves Dover Woman

The importance of having working smoke alarms in the home was demonstrated yet again last night when an elderly resident from Dover was led to safety after fire broke out in her flat.

Residents at flats in Curzon Road quickly dialled 999 when they heard a smoke alarm sounding from their neighbour's property, and when Dover fire crews arrived on the scene just minutes later, they were able to help the elderly lady walk, injured, out of the building.

The fire was believed to have started when a plastic tray was placed on top of a toaster, creating thick acrid smoke. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were able to enter the property and remove the burning material, however firefighters warned that the incident would have been a lot more serious had the property not been fitted with a smoke alarm.

Station Manager Dave Osborne said: "As this incident has demonstrated smoke alarms provide vital early warning to the outbreak of fire. Fortunately a smoke alarm had already been fitted by firefighers in the flat and this, combined with the prompt actions of neighbours and fire crews on the scene, meant the fire was well contained. With minimal lasting damage to the flat, the occupier was able to return as soon as the building had been fully ventilated."

"However, without a smoke alarm this fire could have smouldered undetected for a lot longer, with potentially tragic circumstances."

The woman was administered oxygen by firefighters on the scene but did not require any further medical attention.

As is normal following such incidents Dover fire crews carried out home fire safety checks on both the affected property and some of the neighbours' flats.

Station Manager Osborne continued: "We would urge all Kent residents to take up this free service and to have at least one smoke alarm fitted on every level of their homes."

Home fire safety checks take around 30 minutes and include tips on night-time routines, cooking safely with oil or fat, the dangers of smoking materials, care with candles, electrical safety and planning escape routes in the event of fire. Free 10-year battery smoke alarms are also fitted where needed to give early warning of fire and help people escape. By following the advice given during the check, people can also reduce the risk of fire in their home.

To request a Home Fire Safety Check contact your nearest fire station or call the Community Fire Safety team for free on 0800 923 7000. For more fire safety information, log onto www.kent.fire-uk.org.