Published: Tuesday, 24th June, 2008 12:00
Lucky fire escape for family of eight
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A TERRIFIED family were rescued from their burning home after what is believed to be an arson attack.
At around 12.35am on Monday, Slough Fire Station received a call from a woman when she discovered the front door of her home on Henry Street, Chalvey, was engulfed by flames.
The White Watch crew arrived within minutes to help the eight family members, including her four young children and two elderly parents.
The 36-year-old, who did not wish to be named, said: “I feared for my family’s safety after I heard a loud bang and then saw a bright orange reflection outside my window.
“I knew straight away that it was a fire and rushed to wake my children up and called the station straight afterwards.
“The flames had swallowed our front door so we had no option but to gather at the back of the house and wait to be saved.
“I was worried that if we weren’t killed by the fire, we would die from toxic smoke inhalation.
“The fire crew arrived within a few minutes and guided us all to safety, it all happened so quickly and I am so thankful that we all made it out without any injuries.
“I have no idea if we were targeted or if this was a random attack, but one thing is for certain, this fire was definitely intentional.
“The police have told me that they believe the fire was started by lighting a can of petrol, I really don’t know who would want to do this to a family.”
White Watch manager, Hayden Jenkins, said: “We forced entry through the front door and firefighters Fred West and Dave Angel were able to get to the people trapped at the back of the house and lead them to safety.”
A spokesman for Thames Valley Police added: “The incident is currently being treated as arson and detectives are carrying out a number of enquiries at this time.”
Witnesses are urged to call Det Insp Steve Armstead on 08458 505505 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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