Duty Manager, Graham Booth, has been labelled a hero by a grateful resident for his quick-thinking in putting out a fire.
Graham said: "I was driving home when I noticed a fire in a neighbour's front garden. I initially thought they were just burning some rubbish, but as I pulled the car over, I could see that the front of their house was on fire, including the gas box.
"I ran towards the house, shouting for my neighbours to get out. Luckily there were a few other neighbours around who heard me and came out to see what was going on. I asked one of them for a hose pipe, and they threw one over to me, which I then used to extinguish the fire.
"Within 15 minutes the whole thing was over and done with, but I was shaking for the rest of the day! The family were really lucky, National Gas later told us that there could have been a big explosion if the fire hadn't been put out.
"It was instinct that made me act, I just knew I had to do something. I had my fire training around four months ago, and I feel this helped give me the confidence to be able to help in this situation."
The grateful neighbour wrote to Operations Manager, Michaela Holloway, to pass on their appreciation. Part of the letter read: "I am extremely grateful to Graham and my neighbour for their actions as it could have been so much worse. I believe Graham has had fire training through work so I thank you also, as our fire put his skills to the test and as far as I'm concerned if it had been a test, he passed it with flying colours."
The fire was started after a drinking glass was left on a plastic table during a very sunny, hot day. CHFT Fire Officer, Kumer Zaman, said: "The heroic actions of Graham saved the lives of his neighbours and their property. Graham prevented a serious incident from occurring which could have been catastrophic as gas was involved.
"Remember, a fire can start almost anywhere where circumstances allow. Good fire prevention, knowledge and training for all colleagues is essential in keeping the base, friends and loved ones safe."
Zam has also shared his advice on ways to stay safe when heatwaves happen: "While enjoying the summer sunshine, it’s vital we all make time to look around our homes and outside and see what ornaments or everyday items could cause a fire. If you have magnifying mirrors or items such as glass ornaments, paperweights and deodorants, please keep them out of direct sunlight or where the sun can reflect on to other items."
Remember these tips to stay safe from this type of fire:
- Keep magnifying mirrors out of direct sunlight
- Never put glass ornaments or paperweights on window sills or in direct sunlight
- Make sure shaving or vanity mirrors are not left on window sills
- Be aware of objects in your home that may be exposed to direct sunlight
- Have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home
- Consider installing additional alarms in rooms with electrical appliances or sleeping areas
- Test your smoke alarms once a week
- Purchase a fire blanket
- In the event of a fire, get out, stay out and ring 999