Couple return from holiday to find fire damage in Peterborough home
Cambridgeshire firefighters highlight importance of closed doors and device safety
A couple who recently returned from holiday were greeted by a shocking discovery that their bedroom had suffered significant fire damage. Firefighters from Dogsthorpe White Watch attended their house in Peterborough in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The fire service spokesperson described the scene as distressing for the couple after their time away. Fortunately, the fire did not spread beyond the bedroom, thanks to closed doors throughout the house, limiting oxygen supply and causing the fire to burn itself out.
“This was a distressing situation to find after being away," the spokesperson said. "There was significant damage to the room, however because all the doors in the house were closed, the fire couldn’t spread and burned itself out due to lack of oxygen."
They continued to stress the importance of closing doors at night or when away: "This helps protect the home from fire spreading and causing significant damage, as well as protecting people while asleep."
Cause of the fire
A charging electrical device was pinpointed as the cause of the fire. The spokesperson explained that a vacuum cleaner left on charge had developed a fault unbeknownst to the couple.
“This shows the importance of making sure all electrical devices are switched off before going on holiday, especially battery chargers,” the spokesperson warned.
The couple is now faced with repairing the damage caused before they can resume normal life at home.