Volunteer prevents fire tragedy
Firefighters have praised the quick thinking of a maintenance worker who helped avert a potential tragedy.
Dave Francis, a volunteer at Bearsted Caravan Club, heard a smoke alarm coming from one of the tourers last Thursday.
The 62-year-old, who has volunteered at the site for the past four years, was cutting hedges when he heard the alert just before 11am, and rang 999 before going to investigate.
Armed with a fire extinguisher, Mr Francis entered after establishing the owners were not onsite.
“Unfortunately I had to break in, but I think the owners would be more bothered about their caravan being on fire,” he said.
“The fire crew arrived in no time, they were absolutely brilliant, making sure it was completely out and that all the gas and electricity supplies were isolated.”
Mr Francis is being praised for his efforts, as the fire could easily have got out of control in the confined space.
Terry Barnes, site warden at club in Ashford Road, Hollingbourne said: “We call him Super Dave.
“He’s just one of those people who knows what to do and when to do it.
“He is a real one-off and an amazing bloke.”
Firefighters were at the scene for 25 minutes and believe the blaze started after a washing up bowl was left on top of a cooker left on.