Fire chief's warning over the risks of burning rubbish

Fire service chiefs are urging residents in Newtown not to burn rubbish or waste in their gardens during the current Coronavirus pandemic.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service issued the plea after a fire went out of control at a home in the service's region over the weekend and spread to the property.

"Firefighters extinguished the fire using four breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets, two thermal imaging cameras and ventilated the property using a positive pressure ventilation fan. Five pets were rescued from the property; three rats and two birds," said a service spokesperson.

Group Manager Steve Davies, said: “Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service urge the public not to burn their waste and garden waste during this unprecedented period.

"This incident occurred due to the occupier burning papers in a metal bit close to their property. The bin fell over and ignited other flammable material which spread to the back door of the property and into the house. There was extensive damage to the kitchen and the house was heavily smoke logged.

"Thankfully, smoke alarms were present at the property and assisted the occupier to identify that the fire had started. Please be vigilant of undertaking any kind of activity that could cause you any fire risk and that could also put our fire crews at risk during this time."