Hero Firefighters Rescue Elderly Man Trapped in Blaze After Smoke Overcomes Him
Three fire crews raced to save an elderly resident who collapsed from smoke inhalation during a house fire. The man was struggling as the fire broke out but managed to trigger his personal alarm pendant, alerting his care provider. The provider quickly called 999, summoning firefighters from Bracknell, Ascot, and Wokingham on the evening of Friday 21 April.
Smoke-Filled Home, Heroic Rescue
When crews arrived, thick smoke billowed from the property, and it was clear the man was trapped inside. Four firefighters donned breathing apparatus and braved the smoke-filled house to reach and rescue him. Using one hose reel, they swiftly put out the flames, preventing further damage.
Fire Chief Urges Vulnerable Residents to Get Safety Checks
Paul Jones, Group Manager at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, praised the quick action of the crews and credited the man’s personal alarm for speeding their response.
“The crews acted swiftly and effectively to help this gentleman escape a very dangerous situation. But the reason that we had got there so quickly was due to the gentleman alerting us by using his personal alarm pendant,” Jones said.
He added: “We would encourage anyone that has mobility issues or feels vulnerable to the risk of fire in their home to register for a free home fire safety check.”
How to Get Your Free Fire Safety Check
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service offers free home fire safety assessments to those who qualify. A representative will visit your home to identify and reduce fire risks.
- Visit rbfrs.co.uk/home-fire-safety-check/
- Email [email protected]
- Call freephone 0800 587 6679
Don’t wait – a quick safety check could save you or a loved one’s life.