A woman and her 9-month-old baby have been pulled out of a burning, smoke-filled flat after a late-night blaze broke out.
Emergency crews were alerted just after 11:20 pm on Thursday, October 31, when the mother called 999 for help. But, despite language barriers, fire control operators provided critical guidance to keep them safe until help arrived.
Fire crews from Kingsway, Ascot Drive, and Nottingham Road Fire Stations responded. They found the mother and baby at a second-floor window, signalling for help.
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A ladder was positioned to reach the pair. Firefighters carefully brought the baby to safety first, followed closely by the mother.
Following a quick briefing from police on site, a team in breathing apparatus entered the flat to battle the fire. A ladder was positioned to reach the pair. Firefighters carefully brought the baby to safety first, followed closely by the mother.
An investigation later determined that a candle was likely the cause of the fire. Both mother and baby were taken to the hospital.
How the incident at a flat fire in Derby unfolded
What happened to the victims of the Derby fire
Group Manager Williams said: “Thankfully due to the swift actions of both our 999 control operators and firefighters attending this fire, I am pleased to report that thankfully following a check by EMAS colleagues on the scene neither mother nor baby appeared to have suffered any smoke inhalation.
“Understandably they were both taken to hospital for precautionary checks.”
What do if there is a house fire in Derby
If there’s a fire in your house, follow these steps to stay safe:
1. Stay low and move quickly: Smoke rises, so crouch or crawl to avoid inhaling smoke.
2. Alert others and exit immediately: Shout to alert anyone else in the house and head for the nearest exit.
3. Don’t use elevators: Use stairs instead, as elevators may stop working during a fire.
4. Close doors behind you: This can slow the spread of fire.
5. Avoid opening hot doors: Feel the door with the back of your hand. If it’s hot, the fire is likely close by.
6. Call 999 or your emergency number once outside: Only call emergency services after you’re safely outside, and never go back in for belongings.
Always plan and practice an escape route in advance to ensure you and your family can exit safely in an emergency.
How to use candles safely in Derby
Using candles safely is essential for preventing fires in the home. In the UK, here’s some advice to follow for candle safety:
1. Place Candles Carefully: Always put candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface, ideally away from edges and where they won’t be knocked over. Keep candles out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents.
2. Use Candle Holders: Use appropriate holders that firmly support candles and catch any dripping wax. Never leave candles burning on plastic surfaces, which can melt or catch fire.
3. Keep Candles Away from Flammable Items: Ensure candles are kept at least one meter away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, books, and paper.
4. Extinguish Candles Properly: Snuff out candles rather than blowing them out to avoid splattering wax. Also, make sure candles are fully extinguished before leaving the room or going to sleep.
5. Avoid Draughts: Place candles away from windows and other draughty areas, as the breeze can cause uneven burning or tip candles over.
6. Never Leave a Candle Unattended: Candles should be extinguished whenever you leave the room, even if it’s just for a short time.
7. Consider Alternatives: For a safer option, consider using LED candles, which provide the same ambience without the risk of fire.
For more information on fire safety and candles, you can check out advice from resources like the UK Fire and Rescue Service or the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
