Posted: Sunday 4 April 2021, 10:40
Working smoke alarms alerted two couples that a fire had broken out at their properties allowing them time to phone 999 and call for help.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service received a call to attend the fire at the two properties joined by a car port on an unnamed road in Radbourne at 03:01 hours this morning, Sunday 4 April 2021.
On arrival six firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the two properties and rescued four people before handing them into the care of East Midlands Ambulance Service to be treated for the effects of smoke inhalation.
Firefighters from Kingsway, Nottingham Road, Ascot Drive, Alfreton, Melbourne and Staffordshire’s Tutbury station attended the incident, supported by the command unit from Long Eaton and a water carrier from Ashbourne.
Station Manager Dave Diggins said: “Fire crews were called just after 3am this morning to a fire that was affecting two properties connected by a car port.
“Thankfully the occupants of both properties were alerted by their smoke alarms and were able to call the fire service. As the occupants were unable to escape and get to safety, fire control operators stayed on the phone and give fire survival guidance to both couples until the arrival of firefighters.
“Once again smoke alarms have proved vital in preventing a more serious fire giving the occupants vital early warning, allowing them to ring 999 and call for help. If you haven’t got smoke alarms fitted in your home, please get them fitted as soon as possible, and ensure you test them weekly to ensure they are working.”
A joint police and fire investigation has concluded determining the most probable cause of the fire was accidental due to electrical items.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service would like to remind people of the following safety advice:
- Ensure you have smoke alarms fitted on every level of your property.
- Test your smoke alarms weekly to ensure they are ready to give you and your family vital early warning of a fire, should a fire break out in your home.
- Have a planned and practiced escape plan – if a fire broke out in your home would you know how to get out?
- Carry out a bedtime check – check escape routes are clear, switch electrical items that can be switched off, off and ensure you know where your keys and phone are.
For more fire safety advice including electrical safety information visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk or alternatively follow us on our social channels at @DerbyshireFRS