Fire chiefs' warning after deaths

Police at the scene of the bungalow fire in Newport

Fire chiefs have issued a warning to the public after four deaths in house fires across Wales in six days.

On Thursday, a couple died in a fire at a bungalow in Newport, south Wales. A third died in Denbighshire on Monday and a fourth in Ceredigion on Tuesday.

Simon Smith, chief fire officer for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it was important to have working smoke alarms at home.

All three of the fire services in Wales will fit them for free, he said.

A man and a disabled woman said to be in a wheelchair, died after a fire broke out in their home in the Bishpool area of Newport on Thursday evening.

The property had a smoke alarm fitted and was connected to a community alarm system but emergency services could not help the couple.

A man's body was found in the bungalow and the woman was confirmed as dead upon arrival at hospital.

Our thoughts are with the families of those who have died during the last few days Simon Smith, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service

A faulty electric blanket is thought to be the cause of a fire in which an elderly man died early on Monday morning.

Fire officers, who were called to the blaze in Llangollen, Denbighshire, said it was important that electric blankets were stored properly.

Another man died in a blaze in New Quay, Ceredigion early on Tuesday which fire officers are currently investigating.

Mr Smith said: "It's a very serious and sad situation for the communities of Wales when so many people have been lost to fire in such a short space of time.

"Our thoughts are with the families of those who have died during the last few days.

"These incidents should also remind everyone just how important it is to have working smoke alarms to get the early warning you need to escape and also to stay safe at home.

"All fire and rescue services in Wales can help anyone who needs a smoke alarm by fitting them for free when we carry out a home fire safety check."

People can book a free home fire safety check by calling 0800 169 1234.