As part of our fire safety awareness, two tenants have bravely shared their recent experiences of devastating home fires – powerful reminders of how quickly fires can start, and how important prevention and preparation are.

“It happened in minutes” –  Neath home destroyed

One tenant described how she heard crackling one morning and saw an orange glow outside. Within seconds, a fire in the garden spread to her home. She managed to escape, but the property was destroyed and all their belongings were lost.

In the days that followed, community support made an enormous difference. Friends in America set up a Go Fund Me page to raise funds online, family provided essentials, Dŵr y Felin school donated clothing and vouchers, and Tai Tarian and the British Red Cross offered emergency help.

The mental impact on the family has been huge with added financial stress as they were without contents insurance. 

“Please, pay for contents insurance if you can. You never think you’ll need it – until you do.”

The family have now been rehoused in Sandfields have taken out contents insurance and keep fire extinguishers at home for peace of mind.

E-bike battery explosion leaves tenant injured

In a second incident in Cimla, a tenant described the terrifying moment an e-bike battery, not on charge at the time, exploded. 

Flames shot across the kitchen “like fireworks”, followed by further explosions. She immediately got her children out, then returned to rescue the dog and cat before another blast. She was in hospital for a week, suffered burns and serious eye injuries that will require months of treatment. The fire caused extensive smoke damage, destroying almost everything they owned. The family is currently in temporary accommodation.

“The Fire Service told us these fires are happening more and more often. Their advice was simple, don’t store e‑bikes or e‑scooters indoors, don’t overcharge, unplug as soon as they’re done, and keep batteries in proper firesafe boxes. They can reignite in seconds.”

Both stories show how fast fires can develop and why it’s vital to follow fire safety guidance, store items safely and make sure every member of your household knows how to escape.