Alarms set up after fatal fire

Jan 19 2009 by Neil Mckay, The Journal

FIRE officers are today calling at homes near where a man was killed in a blaze to install free smoke alarms.

The man, named locally as Brian Ritchie, who was in his forties, from Mount Stewart Street, Dawdon, Seaham, County Durham, died on Thursday night.

Neighbours alerted firefighters after seeing thick smoke pouring from the terraced house.

The house had smoke alarms, but it is not yet known if they were working.

Firefighters are now offering to fit free fire alarms and give safety information in the area.

Fire and Rescue Service chief executive Susan Johnson said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the gentlemen at this tragic time.

“As a service, our aim is to protect and educate members of our communities about the dangers of fire.

“At a time like this we are reminded of these dangers and urge all residents to take up our offer of free home fire safety advice and the fitting of free smoke alarms.

“If you already have a smoke alarm, remember to test it once a week.”

People in County Durham can get advice and free alarms by calling (0191) 332-4222 or by visiting ddfire.gov.uk for more details.

Mr Ritchie, a former miner at nearby Dawdon Colliery, lived alone but had relatives in the area.

Speaking about the fatal fire, Colin Bage, duty group manager for Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: “They had to smash the front door and quickly found the fire and the casualty. They put the fire out straight away, but it was too late for the gentleman.”

The front room of the house was badly damaged by the fire and the rest of the building was affected by smoke.

Mr Bage said the fire appeared to have been burning for some time. Three fire engines, from Seaham and Peterlee, attended.