Sittingbourne blaze highlights important fire safety message

3.44.37pm GMT Mon 17th Dec 2007

In the lead up to Christmas, firefighters are campaigning to ensure Sittingbourne residents protect their homes from the risk of fire. Sittingbourne's fire station manager Charlie Smith said: "Our aim is to raise awareness locally of the free home fire safety check service that Kent Fire & Rescue Service (KFRS) offer to all Kent residents."

Only last week, fire crews from Sittingbourne were called to a blaze in Wykeham Road, Milton Regis. On arrival, they discovered flames coming from the garage of a three-story town house. Crews soon discovered through neighbours that people were still inside the smoke logged building and used breathing apparatus to search for them. Two people were led to safety from upper floors.

The fire is believed to be accidental, and fortunately no one was hurt, however the property sustained substantial smoke damage, and it is unknown at this time when the occupants will be able to return to their home.

Charlie continued: "The message we want to get across to local residents who may be busy with preparations for the festive season, is that the home fire safety check service we offer is free and only takes a short time to carry out. Even if you already own smoke alarms, the advice given could not only help protect your property, it could save your life in the unfortunate event of a fire. There is nothing to loose by having this check carried out, so I would urge people to pick up the phone and contact our community safety team on the free phone number today."

The free checks, carried out by firefighters, take about 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 as well as the fitting of, where necessary, free ten-year smoke alarms.

Fire crews will be working in the Sittingbourne area in coming weeks to carry our home fire safety checks. If you are interested in arranging a check please contact the Community Safety Team for free on 0800 923 7000.