On 22nd April 2009, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Mobilising & Communication Centre received an emergency call stating a person was trapped in a fire in a domestic property in Grand Crescent, Rottingdean in Brighton.

The call came in at 13.25 and three appliances were immediately dispatched from Roedean and Preston Circus community fire stations.

Firefighters arrived on the scene at 13.29 and found smoke issuing from the detached bungalow. Fire crews wearing specialist breathing apparatus, entered the premises to undertake search and rescue operations. The flames were tackled from the ground using two hose reel jets.

Unfortunately one female occupant died as a result of the fire and one man was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. Graham Gray, the Incident Commander said, "Our thoughts are with the friends and family of the lady who tragically lost her life in this fire. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service continues to work with Sussex Police and Forensic Scientists to investigate the incident."

In this instance smoke detectors fitted in the property raised the alarm. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service can offer free smoke alarms to homes and business in East Sussex and the City of Brighton & Hove. For further information please contact East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Community Safety Team on 0800 1777069.

If you suspect a fire in your home - Get out, Stay Out and call the Fire Service.