‘Heroic’ community tackled fires in West Midlands town until fire fighters arrived

A Willenhall councillor has spoken of the community’s ‘heroic’ response after two fires broke out last night.

Councillor Simran Cheema said residents got stuck-in to try and contain the first fire before crews arrived at Stonehouse Avenue.

Later on that evening, another fire broke out on Harry Perks Street. The causes of the two fires have not yet been confirmed.

At least three homes have been destroyed and several gardens. Some homes were evacuated during the incident.

The Labour councillor said: “When I saw the fire my heart just sank. It’s people’s homes and they’ve lost everything. At this moment in time their lives are in turmoil. It’s just really horrific to see.

“I can’t thank the residents, the fire and the police for their actions in trying to contain the fire. It’s time like this where the community does come together as one.

“I’m in awe of those residents who got stuck in, rolled their sleeves up, got their hosepipes out and tried to contain the fire while they waited for the fire service to get there.

“There was a bit of delay because perhaps teams had been deployed to other fires. But in that moment people just got stuck in and it was really heartwarming to see communities pulling together to try and contain the fire and offering support to those who have been affected as well.

“I’m really grateful to everyone involved and can’t thank their heroic efforts enough.”

Councillor Cheema said one elderly resident who lost everything in the fire even saw their walking stick claimed in the blaze.

She has issued a plea to the local community to prevent further incidents. The councillor said: “These were two really tragic incidents that have deeply affected the Willenhall community.

“If you’re planning to do anything which could be a source of fire please think of the risks and reconsider. People have lost their homes, they’ve lost everything.

“The impact isn’t just in that moment, it goes beyond that. For the ones who have been affected they’ve got to live with that for the rest of their lives.”

West Midlands Fire Service has been approached for statement.

A spokesperson from Walsall Council said: “The council deployed two forward liaison officers to the scene to assist emergency services with their requests, and support the residents with a rest centre, due to the evacuations.

“The council’s building control officer also attended the scene and facilitated the boarding up of a front door that was fire damaged. The council also put on road closures to alleviate the police from carrying out that role, therefore freeing them up to undertake other duties.

“West Midlands Fire Service is urging residents to take extra care during the current hot and dry conditions to help prevent further fires. Residents are encouraged to continue following advice from emergency services and partner agencies, and to remain vigilant during the current spell of hot weather.”