Residents of Willenhall in the West Midlands were hailed as heroes after they battled two fires in their community before firefighters arrived, according to local councillor Simran Cheema.
The first fire broke out on Stonehouse Avenue, where residents 'rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in,' using hosepipes to try to contain the blaze. A second fire later occurred on Harry Perks Street. The causes of both fires are yet to be confirmed.
At least three homes were destroyed, along with several gardens, and some homes were evacuated during the incidents.
Councillor's tribute to community spirit
Councillor Cheema, Labour, expressed her shock and gratitude: '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.'
She praised the collective effort: '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.'
Cheema highlighted the delay in fire service arrival, noting that teams may have been deployed to other fires. '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.'
One elderly resident lost everything, including a walking stick that was claimed in the blaze.
Plea for caution amid hot weather
Councillor Cheema has urged the community to prevent further incidents: '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 a statement but has not yet responded.
Council support and safety advice
A spokesperson from Walsall Council detailed their response: '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.'
The spokesperson added: '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.'
The community remains in shock, but the councillor's tribute underscores the strength and unity shown in the face of adversity, with residents now facing the long road to recovery.
