Fire prompts candle warning

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning people of the dangers of leaving candles burning unattended follow a fire in a home in Beeston.

At 10.59am yesterday (14 February) fire crews from Sandy, Harrold, Kempston and Potton were called to a fire in a house in High Road, Beeston.  Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used hose reels and jets to extinguish the fire it arduous conditions. While the fire was ongoing, the roadway had to be closed by police whilst firefighters tackled the fire, for the safety of crews.

One female casualty was rescued from the property by firefighters. She was taken to hospital and is said to now be in a stable condition. A dog was also rescued from the house and is in the care of a vet. 

Following a fire investigation, which was supported by the fire investigation dog from London Fire Brigade, it was determined that the fire was accidentally started by a tealight left unattended.

Station Commander Jamie Clarke, fire investigator, said: “Candles are used in many homes, but it only takes one accident to cause a fire. I would urge residents to make sure, when using candles, that they are lit in proper holders and placed away from curtains, loose clothing, furniture fabric and paper.

“It is important that children and pets are kept well away from any lit candles and always extinguish them when leaving a room.

“One of the best ways to protect your family and your home is to have smoke detectors fitted and working. If you have them installed, please ensure that you change the batteries regularly and that you test them. Smoke detectors should also be replaced every ten years."

Following the incident, fire crews also carried out home fire safety visits to properties in the area to support residents with keeping their homes safe and reducing the risk of fire. 

If you would like a free home fire safety visit, log on to Homepage | Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (bedsfire.gov.uk)