Neighbours praised after Christmas Day fire in Downton
Residents led an elderly man to safety after a blaze broke out in his property.
Last updated 27th Dec 2020
Firefighters from Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire were called to the property in Castle Meadow at 12.24pm yesterday (25th December).
On arrival firefighters found a serious fire in the front room of a bungalow which was venting through the roof of the property.
Group Manager Katie Cornhill, Fire Investigation Officer at this incident said:
“The most probable cause appears to be accidental. The elderly resident of the property was led to safety by neighbours who heard the smoke alarm activating. The occupant of the premises was cared for by Ambulance service colleagues on the scene. We would never advise anyone to go into a fire before we arrive, but on this occasion the neighbours were lucky to be able to help the resident and we are very grateful for that.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue has again stressed that smoke alarms save lives.
The emergency service recommends that occupiers have a smoke alarm on every level of their home. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly, and the batteries replaced annually or as directed in the manufacturers instructions.
More information on smoke alarms and home safety can be found on the DWFRS website.