A man has sadly died following a kitchen fire in Bishop Auckland.
Firefighters from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS), were alerted by the ambulance service at around 10.44am on Monday, January 6 to a property in the West Auckland area where there had been a kitchen fire.
Two fire engines from Bishop Auckland arrived at the scene within six minutes of the initial call and confirmed the fire was out.
Sadly, a man in his 90s was pronounced dead at the scene by the ambulance service.
Following a joint investigation between CDDFRS and Durham Constabulary, it is believed the cause of the fire was an unattended chip pan. A report will be submitted to the coroner.
CDDFRS Group Manager Chris Williams said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family following this devastating incident.
“At tragic times like this we are reminded of the dangers of fire and the reality that fire kills.
“Nothing matters more to us than the safety of those who live in our communities, and we would like to appeal to every household to make sure you have working smoke alarms.
“Please ensure you are checking your smoke alarms weekly and give us a call if you don’t have a smoke alarm.
“Our firefighters can fit them for you as part of our free Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV).”
He added: “We ask that you all please reach out to your neighbours - particularly those who are older and living alone - and offer to test their smoke alarms or help arrange a HFSV from their local fire crews.”
Firefighters from Bishop Auckland will be working in the area to offer reassurance to residents and provide home fire safety advice.
To arrange a free Home Fire Safety Visit, including the testing and fitting of smoke alarms, please call 0345 223 4221 or visit the Home Fire Safety Visit section on the Service’s website.
