Christmas tree fire guts house in Reading

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service received a call to a fire at a three-storey detached house on Green Road, Reading at 8.47pm and four crews – from Wokingham Road, Whitley Wood, Dee Road and Wokingham, all had to be called in to assist.
The householders’ real fir Christmas tree had been set aflame after one of the decorated lit candles fell off, and the fire spread quickly through the house.
All occupants managed to escape to safety before crews arrived but one woman had to be given oxygen therapy and the fire caused significant damage to the house.
Station Manager Steve Beard who attended the scene said: “This incident caused severe damage to the property and the family were incredibly lucky to escape without serious injuries.
“We all like to decorate our homes to make them look festive at this time of year but it is essential to remember that, although they look pretty, candles are still naked flames and must be used with caution.
“If you use candles, we strongly advise securing them in a proper holder and keeping them well away from anything flammable.
“Candles and Christmas trees do not mix – as this incident shows, fire can spread incredibly quickly and cause devastating damage.”

Photographs courtesy of RBFRS.