Woman hospitalised after fire breaks out at Chesterfield apartment block – in “traumatic night” for the buildings’ residents

At 11.40pm on Monday, November 14, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of a fire in a flat on Field View, off Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield.

Crews from Chesterfield, Staveley and Clay Cross were deployed to the scene – using two hose reel jets and six breathing apparatus to extinguish the blaze.

DFRS have confirmed that one woman was taken to hospital by paramedics due to smoke inhalation. A fire investigation has recorded the fire as accidental, with the cause being undetermined.

The Derbyshire Times was contacted by another resident who lives in the building – and asked not to be identified – who described the events as “traumatic.”

They said: “Everyone’s thoughts are with the woman who was taken to hospital and thoughts are also with her family and friends.

“It was a highly traumatic night. Residents would like to thank the firefighters, medical staff and police who responded to this terrible incident.”

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Station Manager Mick Wyldbore-Wood said: “Upon arrival to the flat, smoke alarms were sounding and firefighters found the corner of the front room well alight.

“Crews worked to extinguish the fire and found a Christmas tree, bookcase, Christmas lights and candles among the debris.

“While we concluded that this was an accidental fire, the exact cause of ignition remains unknown.”

“Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service would like to remind everyone to have working smoke alarms fitted on every floor of their property and to make sure they are tested weekly.

“Also, as we head into the festive season, we would like to share our top tips for preventing a fire in the home:

Never leave burning candles unattended.

Keep candles away from decorations, Christmas trees, cards, wrapping paper, fires, lights and heaters.

Ensure candles are out of reach from pets and children.

Unplug Christmas lights when you're going to bed or leaving the house.

Don't overload sockets with too many lights.

Check lights conform to a safety standard, e.g. British Standard 60598.”