A bedroom fire in Zion Place, Margate, was caused by a hairdryer left on a bed, leading to a small blaze after a pile of clothes caught alight. The incident occurred on the evening of Monday, November 13, and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unattended electrical appliances.
Fire Brigade’s Swift Response
Two fire engines were dispatched to the scene, where firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, promptly extinguished the fire using hose reel jets. They also employed a smoke curtain to prevent the fire from spreading further and used a high-pressure fan to clear the property of smoke.
Casualty and Precautions
One person, affected by smoke inhalation, was passed into the care of the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) paramedics as a precautionary measure. Fortunately, the quick response of the fire services prevented any serious injuries or extensive property damage.
Cause of the Fire
It is believed that the clothes were accidentally placed on top of the hairdryer, which was still hot after use, leading to the ignition. This incident underscores the importance of handling electrical appliances, such as hairdryers and straighteners, with care.
Safety Advice from Fire Services
Following the incident, the fire services have issued a reminder to the public about the importance of unplugging appliances once they are no longer in use. They advise letting them cool down on a non-flammable surface. Additionally, they stress the importance of having a working smoke alarm on each floor of a property to ensure early detection of fires.
Community Awareness
This event highlights the need for heightened awareness about fire safety in homes, especially regarding the use of everyday electrical appliances. The Margate community is urged to take note of these safety tips to prevent similar incidents in the future.
