Firefighters say that 2 lives have been saved thanks to working smoke alarms after a dishwasher fire broke out at a property in Cowes early this morning (Wednesday).
Appliances from Newport and Cowes were mobilised to Rogerson Close at 04:56 following a 999 call from the homeowners reporting a residential fire.
The importance of smoke alarms is highlighted in this case as the alert roused the occupiers, who were then able to get to a place of safety and alert Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
Fire crews removed the dishwasher from the property before then conducting a safe and well visit, with advice given.
A member of Blue Watch at Newport Fire Station has said:
”The smoke alarms most definitely saved 2 lives and prevented the situation being far worse”.
HIWFRS remained on the scene to deliver community safety materials and fit smoke alarms in neighbouring properties.
Community Safety Watch Manager Aidy Wellock said:
“We cannot stress enough how vital having working smoke alarms in the home is and the difference it can make if a fire occurs. Smoke alarms provide an early warning of incidents and provide precious time to escape.
“Adequate working smoke detection should be fitted on every level of your home and should be tested regularly.
“We offer additional support to fit smoke alarms for those who are most vulnerable to fire via our Safe and Well visits.”
Island crews returned to their stations following the stop message at 5:26.
Positioning, maintaining and testing smoke detectors in your home could save your life. For vital safety information about how to keep you and your family safe visit https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/safety/home-safe-home/smoke-alarms.
