Pensioner dies in County Durham house fire
An investigation is underway, after a woman died in a house fire in County Durham
An investigation is underway, after a woman died in a house fire in County Durham.
Yesterday at 2.22pm, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue service received a report of smoke coming from a house on Westdale View, in Tow Law.
Three appliances from Crook, Bishop Auckland and Consett were immediately deployed, alongside emergency services colleagues from police and ambulance.
Upon arrival, crews were met with a fully developed fire and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and proceeded to conduct a search and extinguish the fire using hose reels.
A pensioner was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The property has been made safe and a joint investigation between County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue, and Durham Constabulary is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
The fire service say;
"As a fire service, this is never the outcome we hope for.
"First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of those affected by this tragic incident.
"We ask that people give her family and loved ones the privacy they need as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.
"As a Service we aim to protect and educate the members of our communities about the dangers of fire.
"At a time like this we are reminded of the dangers of fire and urge all residents to take up our offer of a free Home Fire Safety Visit where we can provide fire safety advice for your home and fit smoke alarms.
"If you already have a smoke alarm, remember to test it once a week."
Fire crews from Crook Fire Station will be working in the neighbourhood today to offer reassurance to neighbours and provide home fire safety advice.
For a free home fire safety advice visit please call 0845 2234221 or visit the fire service website.