Woman dies in South Shields House Fire

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is very sad to report the death of a woman, in a house fire on Saturday 25^th January 2020.

Firefighters from South Shields and Marley Park Community Fire Stations were called out at 14:39 to a fire in a bungalow on Millais Gardens. They arrived at 14:44  where they discovered evidence of a kitchen fire which had been extinguished. Crews quickly located the elderly female resident and performed CPR until the arrival of paramedics, who transported her to hospital. Very sadly we later received confirmation that the lady had passed away.

There was minor damage to the property and it is believed that the fire was accidental. Investigations are ongoing with colleagues from Northumbria Police in an attempt to establish the cause.

TWFRS Area Manager – Community Safety, Lynsey McVay commented:

“This is a tragic incident and our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of this lady.

This terrible accident reminds us all about the need to be aware of the risks present in a kitchen, and how to try and avoid them. It goes without saying that all homes should also have working smoke alarms on every level. Please test them regularly to keep yourself and your family safe.”

If you do hear a smoke alarm activating, regardless of the location, please do not ignore it. Don’t investigate yourself, just call us on 999. If you are aware of an elderly or vulnerable neighbour, you can request a home safety check for them by visiting our website.

If there is a fire in your home, we would advise that you Get out, Stay Out and call 999. For more information on home safety please go to: https://www.twfire.gov.uk/safety-advice/home/prevent/