An elderly woman has been led to safety tonight (Sunday) after firefighters responded to fears of a fire inside a Binstead home – with her trapped inside.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service mobilised to Grange Avenue at around 23:30 when neighbours were alerted to a smoke alarm sounding.
Concerned a fire was developing inside the property, with the homeowner still inside, a 999 call was made resulting in 3 appliances from Ryde and Newport being immediately sent to the scene.
Wholetime firefighters from Ryde were first to arrive, quickly donning breathing apparatus and preparing to enter the terraced property.
Thankfully, it soon became clear that no fire was present but that there was a need to get inside. Entry was carefully forced and the sole occupant was led to safety.
It has been confirmed to Island Echo that cooking fumes emanating from the kitchen set off the alarm. Positive pressure ventilation has been used to rid lingering fumes.
The elderly homeowner has been passed into the care of paramedics from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service, which deployed an ambulance crew, critical care paramedic and an operational commander to the incident.
The quick-thinking and correct actions of neighbours has been praised by Station Manager Ant Westbrook, who has highlighted the importance of fitted and working smoke alarms.
Did you know the majority of house fires occur in the kitchen? For safety information concerning cooking and kitchen appliances visit https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/keeping-safe/loveyourhome/firehazards/kitchen/.
Quick thinking of the neighbors? As is no one checked for smoke or fire?