Importance of fire drill emphasized after big blaze

A senior fire officer is highlighting the importance of working smoke alarms and having a practiced fire escape plan after a family of seven escaped a serious fire in their New Brighton home last night.
 
Firefighters from Llangollen along with those from Johnstown, Wrexham and Chirk were called to the fire at a rural property in the New Brighton area of Minera, Wrexham at 10.56pm yesterday (Sunday, July 14).

The female occupant, her teenage daughter and her daughter’s partner along with another four of her children were in the property at the time of the fire.

The female occupant was upstairs sleeping and was woken by bangs and crackling coming from downstairs. She went to investigate and alerted the other sleeping occupants as the smoke alarms activated.

Their regular route of escape was blocked and so the daughter’s partner kicked down an alternative door.

All occupants escaped safely and were taken to hospital for precautionary checks before being discharged earlier today.

The cause of the fire is currently being investigated.

Paul Whybro, Head of Risk and Resilience for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “This incident clearly highlights the importance of working smoke alarms and practiced fire escape plans.

“Smoke alarms give an early warning which help you to escape safely and quickly in the event of a fire. Plan your escape route with everyone - always include children and the elderly so that everyone knows how to get out. Also, make sure that you know where door and window keys are kept so that you can escape quickly in the event of an emergency.
 
“Thankfully no one was hurt in this fire which had the potential for a major tragedy. This was a rural property and residents living in rural areas should take extra care with fire safety as it is likely that there will not be a fire station in the immediate area. This will mean that the firefighters will have to take time to travel to the property - so early detection of the fire is especially important. “

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also offer free home fire safety checks for all residents in North Wales. During a home fire safety check, a member of the Service will visit your home, help formulate a safety escape plan, give tips and guidance on fire safety in the home, and if necessary, install a new smoke alarm free of charge. For a free home fire safety check, please call our 24 hour hotline on 0800 169 1234, visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk or e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk