Battery charger causes conservatory fire

Warning after South Brent blaze

Fire crews from Buckfastleigh have warned of the danger of fires caused by electrical faults, following a blaze that has seriously damaged a conservatory at a property in South Brent.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue were called to the home around 7 p.m. on Saturday. 

As well as the crew from Buckfastleigh, fire engines from Ivybridge and Ashburton also attended.

The fire was spreading from the conservatory and into to the kitchen area.

Two fire officers wearing breathing apparatus used ahigh pressure hosereel to make a fast attack on the fire and prevented further spread.

Writing on Facebook, the team from Buckfashliegh said: "Early investigations suggest that the fire was started by a battery charger, as a service we attend many electrical fires each week."

They recommend that people should:

• Only buy an appliance if it has a British or European safety mark on it. 
• Unplug appliances at night or when you’re not using them. 
• Charge appliances like laptops and phones on a hard surface like a table. Only charge them when you’re awake and in the house
• Don’t put items on top of electrical equipment, cables or lamps.