Smoke alarm saves couple from caravan fire in Bracklesham

A couple escaped unhurt today thanks to a smoke detector alerting them to a developing fire in their caravan.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Jul 2016, 15:10 BST
Updated 25th Aug 2016, 19:00 BST

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Fire

Crews from East Wittering and Chichester were called to a caravan park on Bracklesham Lane at 6:49am this morning.

Upon arrival of the crews, the caravan was already well alight.

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Thankfully, the occupiers, believed to be in their 60s, who were in bed at the time, were woken by the sound of their smoke detector and were able to escape their property unharmed.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using one high pressure hose reel, two jets and one hydrant. The caravan was completely destroyed by fire and the adjacent caravans were slightly damaged by heat.

The cause of the fire is under investigation but is believed to have started accidentally.

Station Commander Marvin Smith who attended the incident said: “The smoke alarm saved the day here. The couple were fast asleep and had it not been for the smoke detector activating and giving them time to escape this incident would have had a very different outcome.

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“Without a smoke alarm, a small fire can develop undetected into a much more serious one. We’d urge everyone to test their detectors regularly and make sure they have an escape plan in the event of a fire.

“Don’t forget we fit smoke detectors where appropriate as part of a Home Safety Visit. We prioritise those who are over 65 or at higher risk from fire.”

To find out if you or someone you know is eligible for a Home Safety Visit call 0845 872 9719 or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire

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