9th June 2008

Fire on Stonefield Road, Hastings.

On 18th July 2008, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service received an emergency call at 00:30 stating that a house was on fire in Stonefield Road, Hastings.

Four fire appliances from both Bohemia Road and The Ridge Fire stations were immediately deployed to the incident. On arrival fire crews tackled the blaze from ground level using a hose reel jet, whilst firefighters used the Aerial Ladder Platform to rescue two of the occupants from a first floor window. A further 2 occupants were led to safety by crews wearing specialist breathing apparatus.

The Station Manager of Hastings Community Fire Station said "This fire had the potential to be fatal. The occupiers were fortunate to discover the fire early, which allowed them time to move to safety. Smoke alarms were fitted in this property, but did not activate when the fire started. It is essential that residents have smoke alarms fitted in their homes and check them regularly to protect themselves and their loved ones".

Fire Investigation Officers continue to carry out a thorough investigation of the scene.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service can offer free home safety visits and smoke alarms to homes in the County of East Sussex and the City of Brighton & Hove. For further information contact East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Community Safety Team on 0800 177 7069.