News Headlines... January 2011
To go straight to any of January's news click on the links below.
Shed Fire | Blankets Fail Safety Checks | Heater Warning | Dog Rescued | Electrical Fire Safety Week | Partnership Event in Redditch | Avoid Kitchen Fire | Lorry Fire | Busy Time for Service | Malvern Flat Fire | Car Collision | Cottage Boiler Fire | Charity Car Wash | Pershore School Fire | Electric Blanket Testing | Successful Charity Pack | Fire at Farm | Flat Fire in Leominster | House fire in Cookhill | Aircraft lands in field | Chimney Cleaning Advice | Fire at Holt Castle | Smoke Alarms Fitted | Bungalow Fire | Fire at Disused Mill
Shed Fire
Friday 28th January
Firefighters say that a shed fire in Hawford Place in Droitwich could have had far more serious consequences without an early alert from a three-year-old girl living nearby.
The girl's mother called Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) at around 3.25pm this afternoon (Friday 28 January) after her daughter pointed out the fire to her.
One pump from Droitwich attended, and on arrival, firefighters found a shed between two houses alight and houses either side of it involved in the fire.
Watch Commander Craig Newman said: "Thanks to this little girl, we were at the scene very quickly and the fire was under control within around 20 minutes. The shed was completely destroyed and there was also damage to both houses either side of it.
"We really feel that this fire had the potential to be far more serious than it was, especially as there was a gas cylinder nearby which could easily have caught fire and exploded.
"The family can be very proud of their young daughter!"
He confirmed that no one was injured as a result of the incident.
Blankets fail safety checks
Wednesday 26th January
More than half of the electric blankets checked at a safety testing session in Bromsgrove earlier today (Wednesday 26 January) were deemed unsafe.
The event, held at Amphlett Hall, was organised by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) in conjunction with Age Concern, Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT), LifeLine and West Mercia Police.
Julie Udall, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, said: "Out of the 58 electric blankets tested, a total of 32 failed the checks, equating to a failure rate of 55 per cent. While this figure is concerning, it's reassuring to know that these potentially dangerous blankets will no longer be used on people's beds."
She said that replacement blankets, one per household subject to availability, had been offered where blankets had failed the checks.
She urged anyone not managing to get along to the event to take a few moments to inspect their own electric blankets and leads, looking out for any signs of wear and tear. She warned that a blanket should not be used if it has a worn lead or missing connections, any exposed elements, scorch marks or water damage or any creasing or folding.
Those visiting the Bromsgrove safety testing session were also able to access a range of advice, and H&WFRS also set up seven home fire safety referral visits during the event.
Heater warning
Wednesday 26th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is issuing advice on the safe use of heaters following an incident at a property in Verschoyle Gardens in Ross-on-Wye at the weekend.
Two fire crews from Ross-on-Wye were called at around 8.15am on Sunday 23 January following reports that a smoke alarm had activated and there was a smell of smoke coming from the address.
Firefighters forced entry into the unoccupied property and found a sheet covering the night storage heater as well as washing left drying nearby.
Crew Commander Steve James from H&WFRS said: "Fortunately we had an early alert and firefighters were able to locate the smoke source quickly and then ventilate the property.
"However this had the potential to be more serious than it was and we'd like to highlight how important it is to keep electric heaters and storage heaters uncovered, and to keep furnishings and drying washing well away from them."
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service recommends that great care should be taken when using portable electric heaters or storage heaters in the home. Advice includes:
- Keep heaters clear of curtains, other furnishings and furniture
- Sit at least three feet or one metre away from the fire
- Never cover the air grilles of storage heaters, fan heaters or convention heaters
- Do not dry washing on or near the heaters, nor on fire guards
- Use a fire guard with a radiant fire, particularly if you have children
Dog rescued
Monday 24th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called at 5.35pm yesterday afternoon (Sunday 23 January) to reports of a dog in the River Severn in Worcester, just near The Diglis House Hotel.
One fire engine plus the specialist water rescue boat from Worcester attended and following a search of the river bank, crews spotted the dog in the water, towards the centre of the river. Two members of the rescue team then entered the water and brought the dog back to safety.
The dog, a 13-year-old Springer Spaniel called Nellie, was suffering from the effects of the cold water. Crews borrowed towels from a nearby house and wrapped her up, and then her owners took her to the vets where she was treated for shock and put on a saline drip. She was allowed home later the same evening where she is expected to make a full recovery.
Watch Commander Dave Smith from Worcester Fire Station said: "Nellie had been in the water for about 20 minutes before we located her, and considering her age and the temperature of the water, we feel she is very lucky to have survived her ordeal. Our priority on bringing her out of the river was to get her warmed up and thankfully, following a visit to the vets and lots of attention from her owners, she's making an excellent recovery."
He warned dog owners to take extra care along that stretch of pathway near the river, particularly after dark.
James Partridge, the partner of the dog's owner, praised Hereford & Worcester Fire and Service for rescuing Nellie, saying: "Nellie had been in the water for so long that we were starting to fear the worst. I was almost embarrassed to ring the Fire Service and then was amazed that they went in the water to save her like they did. I can't thank them enough. I never realized until then what a phenomenal service they provide."
Electrical Fire Safety Week - 24 – 30 January, 2011
Monday 24th January
Overloaded sockets and overheated appliances are the watchwords this week as Electrical Fire Safety Week gets underway for the first time, raising awareness of one of the biggest causes of accidental house fires in the country.
Electrical appliances have become a staple of modern life – from fridges and phones to toasters or televisions, and it's hard to imagine how we'd get by without a few electrically-powered essentials. And with the recent cold weather, many sockets could still be loaded with extra heaters and electric blankets.
But in 2007 over 60 percent of all accidental house fires were caused by electrical equipment, and so the Fire Kills campaign and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) have joined forces with the Electrical Safety Council to spread the fire safety message and ensure people are taking care with their appliances.
Each year, faulty or misused electrical products cause around 100 fires* across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. In 2007, accidental electrical fires in the home resulted in 40 deaths across the country and H&WFRS are committed to helping bring this number down. But every individual can take steps to help them by checking that the electrical equipment they use everyday is in good shape and is operated properly.
Station Commander Grant Wills from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said:
"Fire in the home can be devastating, but many of these fires are preventable. Over half of all accidental fires begin with an electrical appliance, so it's really important that everyone makes sure that their electrics are in good working order and are used properly. The majority of electrical fires start in the kitchen, so be extra careful when using cooking appliances. By following some simple steps, you can help keep you and your loved ones safe from fire."
- Don't overload plug sockets
- Regularly check for worn or frayed wires
- Unplug appliances when not in use
- Keep appliances clean and in good working order
- Consider using a Residual Current Device (a device which protects against electric shocks and reduces the risk of electrical fires)
The Electrical Safety Council advises that heaters should be kept clear from curtains and furniture and should never be used for drying clothes, while your electric blanket should be unplugged before you go to bed, unless it has a thermostat for safe all-night use.
As well as promoting these key messages throughout Electrical Fire Safety Week, H&WFRS will also be holding an electric blanket testing session at Amphlett Hall in Bromsgrove on Wednesday 26 January where anyone can take their electric blanket along to be safety checked. Full details of the event are listed online at www.hwfire.org.uk .
To help keep you and your family safe from fire, H&WFRS provides free home fire risk checks and, where necessary, free smoke alarms. Please call 0800 032 1155 to arrange a visit to your home to get fire safety advice specific to you and your household.
Partnership event in Exhall Close, Redditch
Monday 24th January
Partner agencies from Redditch have joined forces to bring a range of services out to the local community.
The campaign, which will be promoted as part of the PACT (Partners and Communities Together) initiative, will include a series of events in targeted areas of the town and aims to reassure local people that their concerns will be both heard and acted upon by the appropriate agencies.
The first of these community based events will take place in Church Hill over a four day period, between Thursday 10 February and Sunday 13 February, when representatives from the agencies involved will be in Exhall Close, calling at people's homes to highlight the services they offer and how they can be accessed.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) will take along its Community Safety trailer to be used as a central base during the four-day campaign. Fire officers, police officers plus representatives from several departments at Redditch Borough Council, including Housing and the Anti Social Behaviour Team, will then call on residents in Exhall Close with a questionnaire to record which services they might be interested in. Age Concern from Redditch and Act on Energy will also form part of the team.
A letter to all households will be circulated in advance of the initiative, advising people which agencies are involved and what services they provide. Posters and literature from each partner agency will also be available from the trailer during the event.
For its part, H&WFRS will be promoting fire safety during the four day campaign and will be offering free home fire safety referrals and smoke alarm checks. West Mercia Police will be offering a range of crime prevention advice including information on home and vehicle safety, while the council will be encouraging people to report any repairs needed or other issues regarding council-managed services. Age Concern, meanwhile, will highlight a range of services available to older people while Act on Energy will be offering householders advice on how to heat their homes more efficiently.
Station Commander Phil Griffiths, based at Redditch Fire Station, explained: "All of the agencies involved in this initiative have an interest in the safety and well-being of local residents, and it makes sense to go out into the community together in this way to highlight our particular area of work and how we can work alongside partners to improve everyone's quality of life.
"The Fire Service is particularly keen to encourage residents in Exhall Close to have a home fire safety check, where someone from our Community Safety Team will visit on a day convenient to the householder, to look at reducing fire risk in the home. This would include the installation of smoke alarms as needed, and encouraging families to work out an escape route in case of fire."
PC Mark Broughton, Local Policing Officer for Church Hill, added: "As at a regular PACT meeting, we are hoping to meet local people face-to-face and see how we can offer reassurance and practical help for any concerns they might have. We will also be offering useful tips on crime prevention for the house and garden, as well as for people's vehicles."
Councillor Carole Gandy, Leader of Redditch Borough Council, said: "This is a very positive initiative. I hope it will raise residents' awareness of Council services and how they can access them."
The community action days in Exhall Close will be held from 10am until 2pm on Thursday 10 & Friday 11 February, and from 12 midday until 4pm on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 February.
Similar partnership events are planned for the Winyates area and two town centre locations later in the year.
Alert from smoke alarm helps avoid serious kitchen fire
Friday 21st January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a house in Leswell Lane in Kidderminster this morning (Friday 21 January) following an alert from a concerned neighbour who heard a smoke alarm in the property next door.
The call was received at around 10.50am and two pumps from Kidderminster attended.
On arrival, firefighters found smoke issuing from the front and back door of the house, and as there was no response to their knocking, they forced their way inside, where they found an unattended pan burning on the kitchen stove.
The fire was quickly extinguished with two firefighters in breathing apparatus, a covering jet and one hose reel used. Ventilation equipment was then used to clear the smoke from the building, and from the adjoining property.
Crew Commander Debbie Davies from H&WFRS said: "The saucepan was severely burnt, and while fire damage was contained in the kitchen, there was extensive smoke logging throughout the house. The neighbour's house was also affected by the smoke."
She added: "Without the alert from the neighbour and early intervention by fire crews, this incident could have been far more serious than it was and it highlights two very important fire safety messages.
"Firstly, never leave cooking unattended. Secondly, make sure you have a working smoke alarm installed in your home. Fortunately the neighbour heard the alarm activate and called the Fire Service, but without this early warning, the kitchen or the whole house could have been destroyed. We hope this will encourage everyone to get a smoke alarm fitted themselves and to test it is working on a regular basis."
Lorry fire
Thursday 20 January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to Henwick Grove in Worcester at around 2.40pm this afternoon (Thursday 20 January) following reports that a lorry was on fire at the university campus and that sounds of explosions had been heard.
Two appliances from Worcester were first at the scene, and in response to a request for extra support, were soon joined by an additional pump from Worcester as well as by fire crews from Malvern and Droitwich.
On arrival, they found a lorry believed to be loaded with bitumen and LPG cylinders on fire and a nearby two-storey building also at risk of catching alight.
Firefighters brought the fire under control shortly before 4.30pm using two jets and one hose reel and remain at the scene, damping down and ensuring the area is safe.
The lorry was completely destroyed as a result of the fire.
Firefighters praised the university staff for their help in controlling traffic and keeping onlookers at a safe distance throughout the incident.
Fire Service called to spate of collisions across two counties
Thursday 20 January
Icy roads and foggy conditions across the two counties this morning have resulted in an unusually high level of call outs to road traffic collision incidents for Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS).
In a four hour period (between 6.20am and 10.20am), fire crews were called to assist at nine different collisions where vehicles had left the road or overturned.
This included two in Herefordshire and seven in Worcestershire.
Group Commander Ian Prust from H&WFRS, who attended two of this morning's collisions, said: "The early morning frosts have made it difficult today on Herefordshire and Worcestershire roads and we'd urge people to slow down and take extra care when faced with such conditions."
Collisions attended by H&WFRS this morning included:
- At 6.20am, two fire crews from Kidderminster went to a road traffic collision just off the A442 at Franche involving a car on its roof. They used hydraulic rescue equipment to help release one of the occupants from the vehicle.
- At 6.53am, two pumps from Bromsgrove went to a collision along the A448 Bromsgrove to Kidderminster Road. Firefighters helped make safe the two vehicles involved in the incident.
- At 7.49am, one pump from Worcester and one from Droitwich went to a collision in Hurst Lane in Fernhill Heath, Worcester. Fire officers helped make safe the vehicle involved.
- At 7.51am, two pumps from Bromsgrove plus one from West Midlands FRS attended a collision in Egghill Lane in Frankley. Fire crews helped make safe an overturned car.
- At 8.01am, two pumps from Ross-on-Wye and one from Ledbury went to a collision involving two vehicles on the M50 Eastbound between Junction 3 and Junction 2.
- At 8.24am, one pump from Bromsgrove and two from Redditch went to a collision along the A448 Redditch to Bromsgrove Road. Crews helped release the occupant of the car involved and then made the vehicle safe.
- At 8.44am, two fire crews from Malvern attended a collision in Madresfield in Malvern, helping release an occupant from the vehicle.
- At 9.10am, H&WFRS was called to a collision along Morton Road in Hereford.
- At 10.11am, two pumps from Bromsgrove and two from West Midlands FRS were called to a collision along the Birmingham Road in Rubery.
Flat fire in Malvern
Wednesday 19 January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to Moat Crescent in Malvern yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 18 January) following reports of a flat on fire.
The alert came through just before 4pm and two pumps from Malvern attended.
Crews found a fire in a ground floor bedroom at the flat and four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus helped extinguish the blaze, with two hose reel jets used.
They then used positive pressure ventilation (PPV) equipment to help clear the smoke from the premises.
Station Commander Neil Lilwall from H&WFRS said: "Early enquiries into this incident suggest that the fire was caused by a cigarette left unattended in the bedroom.
"The fire had already taken hold before it was noticed by the occupants and although they were able to evacuate safely, there was major damage to the bedroom and hall area and smoke damage throughout the property."
He added: "This incident highlights two important fire safety messages - firstly, that smokers must take care with cigarettes and should never leave them lit and unattended, and secondly, that it's vital to have working smoke alarms fitted in the home as they really can save lives. An early warning of a fire from an alarm can be the difference between safe evacuation and minimal damage, or far more devastating consequences."
He urged people never to disconnect smoke detectors that activate while cooking or 'borrow' batteries from smoke alarms to use in other battery powered items as by doing so, they put their home, its contents and the safety of their family at risk.
Car in collision with house
Wednesday 19th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) sent along its specialist rescue team to help make a building safe following a road traffic collision in the centre of Stourport last night (Tuesday 18 January).
The incident happened along the Gilgal at around 11.10pm and involved a car which had mounted the pavement before being in collision with the front of a house.
The car driver received medical treatment at the scene while his female passenger was taken by ambulance to hospital as a precautionary measure. Neither are believed to have suffered any serious injuries.
Station Commander Dave Williams from H&WFRS said: "Thankfully the house was unoccupied at the time of the incident but there was significant damage to the front window and brickwork."
He confirmed that H&WFRS's USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) unit from Droitwich, with guidance from structural engineers from the district council, were able to shore up the damaged brickwork and leave the premises secure.
Barriers supplied by the highways department were also used and police also attended.
Boiler fire at cottage in Sedgeberrow
Monday 17th January
Firefighters from Hereford & Worcester fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to extinguish a boiler fire at a thatched cottage in Winchcombe Road, Sedgeberrow on Friday morning (14 January).
The call was received at 11.40am and fire crews from Broadway, Pershore and Upton-on-Severn attended along with two pumps from neighbouring Gloucestershire.
Four firefighters in breathing apparatus helped tackle the fire, which had broken out in the boiler cupboard on the ground floor of the cottage. Two hose reel jets were also used.
Station Commander Mark Strutt said: "The occupants were alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm fitted in the cottage and had managed to get out themselves and save the family dog before we arrived.
"Knowing they were safe, our main priority then was to prevent the spread of fire to the thatched roof, and by cutting away and using a thermal imaging camera, we were able to contain the fire to the ground floor with only minor damage to the first floor."
The fire was under control by around 1.45pm.
While the boiler at this property was relatively new, Station Commander Strutt advised that everyone should have their boilers serviced regularly to minimise the risk of fire.
He also stressed the importance of having a working smoke alarm fitted on every level of a house as an early alert can help avoid major damage to a home, injury or worse.
Car wash at Kidderminster fire station
Monday 17th January
A charity car wash will take place at Kidderminster Fire Station in Castle Road, Kidderminster between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 29 January.
Caroline Webster, Community Safety Advisor with Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "Local Young Firefighters will be at this event, helping to wash cars and handing out a range of fire safety advice.
"We hope that local people will call by on the day and support their efforts."
All proceeds will be donated to the Fire Fighters Charity
and the Young Firefighters Association.
Fire at school in Pershore
Monday 17th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a fire at Holy Redeemer RC School in Priest Lane in Pershore at around 6.45pm on Friday evening (14 January).
Firefighters from Pershore were first to arrive at the school, and requested extra support, with two pumps from Evesham and one from Worcester joining them at the scene.
Four firefighters in breathing apparatus helped tackle the fire, with two hose reels in use within the school and one jet used externally.
The school was unoccupied at the time.
Station Commander Kevin Williams from H&WFRS said: "The fire was brought under control by around 9.20pm although crews remained at the school to continue damping down and to undertake fire investigation."
He confirmed that there was substantial damage to the staff room and a nearby corridor as a result of the fire, and also heavy smoke damage in some class rooms in the affected area.
The fire is believed to have started in a kitchen area at the school.
STAY SAFE THIS WINTER – Get your electric blanket tested
Monday 17th January
Residents from the Bromsgrove area will be able to check the safety of their electric blankets at a testing session to be held in the town next week.
The event has been organised by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) with Age Concern, Bromsgrove (BDHT), Lifeline and West Mercia Police, and will take place at Amphlett Hall in Crown Close, Bromsgrove between 10am and 1pm on Wednesday 26 January.
As well as getting their electric blankets tested, those attending will also be able to get advice on home security and a range of services for older people. Advice on all aspects of fire safety will also be available on the day – particularly the importance of having correctly fitted and working smoke alarms in the home.
Julie Udall, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, said: "Thankfully there's been only a small number of incidents in recent years in the Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service area that have been directly attributable to defective electric blankets.
"Despite this, around a third of electric blankets we've tested so far this winter in Worcestershire have been in a dangerous condition and we'd urge local residents in Bromsgrove to take this opportunity to have their own electric blankets safety checked."
She also confirmed that free replacement blankets will be offered, one per household subject to availability, for any electric blankets deemed unsafe during the testing session.
She urged all electric blanket users to inspect their blankets and their leads on a regular basis, looking out for signs of wear and tear. She warned that a blanket should not be used if it has a worn lead or missing connections, any exposed elements, scorch marks or water damage or any creasing or folding.
She also recommended keeping hold of the manufacturer's instructions for using the electric blanket as these will advise how to use and store it safely, thus prolonging its life. Ideally electric blankets should be tested every two years and replaced every 10 years.
She also reminded people not to take hot water bottles or drinks to bed with them if they have an electric blanket on their bed - as any leaks or spills on the blanket could result in a dangerous mix of water and electricity.
For your FREE blanket test, please make an appointment by calling 01562 512612. Alternatively, a drop in facility will be available on the day for those who are prepared to wait / collect later.
Successful charity bag pack
Monday 17th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is thanking the public for donations made during a bag pack initiative which went ahead in Redditch town centre during the week before Christmas, despite the heavy snow-fall in and around the area.
Firefighters went along to Marks & Spencers in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre, helping customers pack their shopping and handing out a re-usable bag highlighting the key Christmas fire safety messages. The bag, jointly funded by H&WFRS and Redditch Community Safety Partnership, encouraged shoppers to fit a smoke alarm in their home and ensure they had spare batteries for it.
They also gave out fire safety advice in the town centre and raised a total of £783.92, which will go to The Fire Fighters Charity.
Bob Morris, Watch Commander at Redditch fire station, said: "We were restricted to some degree because of the weather but nevertheless managed to get out into the shopping centre to give out some important fire safety messages particularly relevant at Christmas."
He passed on his thanks to everyone who made a donation to The Fire Fighters Charity during the initiative, and confirmed that it was fairly quiet over the Christmas and New Year period in the Redditch area, except for the call-outs to burst pipe incidents caused by the icy conditions.
Fire at farm in Garway
Monday 17th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a farm in Garway in Herefordshire at around 8.20pm on Friday 14 January following reports of a fire involving several farm buildings.
Firefighters from Ewyas Harold were first to arrive at the farm, and following an initial assessment, made pumps four, with two pumps from Hereford plus one from Whitchurch also attending along with the water carrier from Ross-on-Wye.
They found a number of buildings at the farm on fire, with some containing cattle, a large amount of hay and straw, and farm machinery. The farmer also informed firefighters that around 29 tonnes of ammonium nitrate (used as fertiliser) and a large quantity of asbestos sheeting were stored in one of the buildings involved in the fire.
Phil Major, Station Commander and Hazmat Officer with H&WFRS, said: "The presence of ammonium nitrate along with diesel-powered farm equipment stored nearby was of huge concern to us, and with the added complication of asbestos sheeting in the same building, the incident had the potential to be very serious."
He explained that the occupants at the farm were evacuated to a safe distance and that firefighters used curtain sprays and ground monitors to cool surrounding buildings, helping protect livestock and other farm machinery not involved in the fire, and preventing the spread of fire to unaffected areas.
The Hazmat Officer from H&WFRS worked alongside officers from the Environment Agency and Environmental Health at the scene to prevent the catastrophic effects of the ammonium nitrate entering the River Monnow nearby.
The fire was brought under control by around 2am the following morning (Saturday 15 January) although firefighters and the Hazmat Officer remained at the scene until around 5pm to damp down any hotspots.
The cause of the fire has yet to be established.
Flat Fire in Leominster
Sunday 16th January
Twenty-seven people were safely evacuated from their homes following a fire at a flat in Leominster at the weekend.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was alerted to the incident shortly before 6am on Sunday 16 January following the activation of an automatic fire alarm at sheltered housing accommodation in Etnam Street. Smoke was also seen coming from a window of one of the flats.
Two fire crews from Leominster were dispatched to the fire and on arrival, made pumps six, with two further pumps from Tenbury, plus one from Kingsland and one from Hereford also attending.
The fire had broken out in a first floor flat of the three storey building and the occupant had managed to get out safely. Six firefighters in breathing apparatus then helped bring the occupants of nearby flats to safety.
The fire was brought under control by around 6.30am with firefighters using three hose reels. They then used two PPV (Positive Pressure Ventilation) fans to help clear smoke from the building which had become heavily smoke-logged as a result of the fire.
Firefighters remained at the premises until 1pm cutting away and damping down, and carrying out fire investigation work.
Station Commander Phil Major from H&WFRS said: "There's been close liaison between officers from the local fire station and staff from the sheltered housing scheme to ensure that effective fire safety procedures are in place, and working together with ambulance staff on Sunday morning, the properties were safely evacuated with everyone accounted for and thankfully no one injured."
He confirmed that the cause of the fire has not yet been established although it is not believed to be suspicious.
House fire in Cookhill
Friday 14th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a house fire in Evesham Road in Cookhill at 3.35am this morning (Friday 14 January).
Three fire engines from Redditch were dispatched to the address and following an initial assessment by the first firefighters to arrive, extra support was requested, with the water carrier from Evesham and fire crews from Warwickshire joining them at the scene.
Evesham Road has been closed in both directions and the incident is still on-going, with firefighters working with the police to investigate the cause of the fire.
No one was injured as a result of the incident.
Fire Service called after small aircraft lands in field near Inkberrow
Thursday 13th January
Firefighters say that a pilot is lucky to have escaped injury or worse as the light aircraft he was flying caught fire this morning (Thursday 13 January), forcing him to make a controlled landing in a farmer's field in Knighton, just outside Inkberrow.
Following an alert at around 10.50am, two pumps from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (both from Redditch) attended along with two pumps from neighbouring Warwickshire, and on arrival at the scene, firefighters found a fuel spillage and a small fire in the cockpit which had already been extinguished.
The pilot was unhurt as a result of the incident, but was checked at the scene by ambulance personnel as a precaution.
Phil Griffiths, Station Commander at Redditch Fire Station said: "The pilot did really well to land the aircraft safely, especially considering it was fully loaded with fuel at the time."
He confirmed that there had been a small amount of damage to a fence at the farm as the aircraft came down and that investigation into the cause of the fire was underway.
Police also attended and the Civil Aviation Authority informed.
Firefighters left the scene once they were sure there was no further risk of fire, and the aircraft is now awaiting recovery.
Is your chimney or woodburner due a clean?
Tuesday 11th January
Stocks of a new leaflet encouraging people to have their chimneys swept have now been distributed to fire stations and registered chimney sweeps across the two counties.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) has produced the leaflet as part of an on-going campaign to highlight just how dangerous unswept chimneys can be.
While H&WFRS attends around 200 chimney and woodburner fires every year, there has been an unusually high call-out rate this winter. This started in September 2010 when firefighters were called to a total of 14 chimney fires compared to just four during September 2009, and while October figures were down on last year, November saw a dramatic increase from 23 in 2009 to a total of 43 in 2010.
Figures for December showed a similar upward trend with an increase from 37 chimney fires in 2009 to 49 in December 2010, a rise of 12 per cent.
While cumulatively there were 125 chimney fires between April and December 2009, there were 157 in the same period in 2010, an overall increase of over 25 per cent.
Sharon Jones from H&WFRS's Community Safety department said: "While the severe cold snap before Christmas may have prompted more people than usual to light a fire and may contributed to some extent to these figures, the total number of chimney fires between September and December has also shown a marked increase and we are very concerned at this upwards trend."
She explained that chimney fires have the potential to be extremely serious. They can cause smoke damage throughout the house and can easily spread into the roof space and other floors of the building, and can even destroy a home completely. Although H&WFRS do not charge for attending chimney fires, the average cost of a house fire is estimated at over £25,000 and is also likely to cause considerable distress to all those involved.
She added: "While fires involving chimneys and wood burning stoves can be devastating, we know that many can be avoided, simply by ensuring chimneys are swept on a regular basis."
She explained that it takes just one quick phone call to the chimney sweep, one small payment and one hour of your time to get your chimney swept, but really can play a vital part in ensuring your home, your family and your possessions are safe from the effects of a chimney fire.
The new leaflet produced by H&WFRS includes recommendations on how often chimneys should be swept and website addresses to visit for details of approved chimney sweeps operating locally.
It also encourages anyone noticing a fire in their chimney to call 999 immediately and to get out and stay out until the Fire Service arrives.
Registered chimney sweeps across Herefordshire and Worcestershire have agreed to pass on copies of this leaflet to their customers while stocks will also be available at local fire stations and libraries across the two counties.
Fire at Holt Castle
Monday 10th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to reports of a woodburner fire at Holt Castle in Holt Heath, Worcestershire just before 10pm on Friday 7 January.
Fire crews from Droitwich and Kidderminster were first to arrive at the castle, and finding a fire in the bedroom above the woodburning stove and the first floor heavily smoke logged, they increased attendance to five pumps, with an additional pump from Bromsgrove and two from Worcester joining them at the scene. The water carrier from Evesham, the Command Support Unit from Malvern and the hydraulic platform from Bromsgrove also attended.
Eight firefighters in breathing apparatus then fought the fire in the first floor bedroom, with three hose reels and one covering jet also used.
While the family living at the castle had safely evacuated, one male was checked by paramedics at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation.
Station Commander Adrian Moore from H&WFRS explained: "The fire had broken out in a woodburning stove in a downstairs lounge at the castle, and then spread to chimney casing on the ground and first floors."
He confirmed that the fire was largely contained in the first floor bedroom at the castle, which is a Grade I listed building dating back to the 13th Century.
Smoke alarms fitted following washing machine fire
Thursday 6th January
Firefighters fitted new smoke alarms at a house in Hermitage Way in Stourport yesterday afternoon (Wednesday 5 January) following a washing machine fire at the address.
The call came through just after 1pm and fire crews from Stourport and Kidderminster attended, using a carbon dioxide extinguisher to put out the fire.
Before leaving, they helped ventilate the property, carried out a home fire safety check at the address and fitted new smoke alarms.
Watch Commander George Marshall from H&WFRS said: "The fire broke out in the drum of the washing machine and it was fortunate that the house was occupied at the time, and the fire was noticed quickly.
"While this was a fairly old machine, any domestic appliance can go wrong and it's vital that people have working smoke alarms fitted so problems of this nature are spotted before they have chance to develop into something more serious."
For more information on arranging a free home fire safety check and installing smoke alarms in your home, call Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 032 1155.
Bungalow Fire
Wednesday 5th January
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to reports of a house fire in Peopleton, near Pershore, just before 8am yesterday morning (Tuesday 4 January).
One pump from Pershore and two from Worcester attended and four firefighters in breathing apparatus helped extinguish the fire, which had spread from the kitchen to the roof space of the Norchard Lane bungalow.
Two hose reels and a covering jet were used to bring the fire under control just before 9am.
The Red Cross Support Unit also attended the incident and offered support to an elderly male at the address.
Station Commander Adrian Moore from H&WFRS said: "Thankfully the occupant suffered only minor effects of smoke inhalation, and damage to the bungalow was limited to the roof and kitchen area.
"The incident does, however, illustrate just how important it is to have a working smoke alarm fitted in a property. An alert from an alarm gives valuable time to get out safely and really can save lives."
He urged everyone to ensure they have a working smoke alarm fitted in their home, and to keep supplies of spare batteries.
The fire is believed to have started in an electric box in the kitchen.
Fire at Disused Mill
Saturday 1st January
Part of a disused mill in Leominster has been demolished following a fire at the site in the early hours of New Year's Day (Saturday 1 January, 2011).
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called just after 3.30am to reports of a serious fire at the premises in Pinsley Road, and due to the scale of the incident, six fire engines were deployed (from Leominster, Tenbury Wells, Bromyard and Leintwardine plus two from Hereford). The water carrier from Leominster also attended along with the Hydraulic Platform from Bromsgrove and the Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) team from Droitwich.
On arrival, fire crews found that one section of the mill was alight and that the building had suffered serious structural damage. Due to the proximity to the railway line, they issued an early alert for trains to be suspended in both directions along the nearby track. A footpath situated between the mill and the railway line was also closed throughout the incident and the electricity supply in the immediate area also isolated for a short while, affecting several residential properties nearby.
Two firefighters in breathing apparatus were involved in tackling the blaze, with two hose reels, two jets and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) equipment also used.
Following a search of the premises, firefighters were able to confirm that there was no one inside the building and the fire was brought under control by around 10am, although damping down continued throughout the day. As it was considered at risk of collapse, a demolition order was then placed on the section of the mill involved in the fire.
Station Commander Steve Jordan explained: "This proved a complex incident to tackle due to the location of the mill and the instable nature of the building. The mill itself is situated on the outskirts of a residential area in Leominster and the section of the building involved in the fire was just yards from the railway line, and was considered at risk of collapse.
"We issued a caution to Network Rail shortly after arriving at the incident and then requested that trains were suspended at around 6.45am. A Rail Incident Officer took responsibility for the rail network as he arrived at around 7.25am, and the line was re-opened following his inspection."
He added: "While the mill was known to us already as a derelict property, we could not be entirely sure that it was unoccupied at the time of the fire and searching was particularly difficult due to the unsafe nature of the building. Nevertheless, we were able to confirm that the building was empty at around 8am, with no one injured as a result of the fire."
Investigations into how the fire started are continuing.