MFRS attended a house fire in Canterbury Way, Netherton, on Wednesday evening (13th May, 2020). Sadly, we can confirm that the incident involved one fatality.

Crews were alerted at 6.04pm and on the scene at 6.10pm. Merseyside Police and the North West Ambulance Service also attended the incident.

Firefighters discovered the body of a man at the property after being called to the fire, which was well alight, on arrival.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Three fire engines attended and six firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using high pressure hose reels and a main branch. The fire was fully extinguished by around 7.30pm.

Mark Thomas, Group Manager for Prevention at MFRS, said: “On arrival, fire crews found a well-developed fire at the rear of the terraced property. The fire had fully engulfed a lean-to in the garden and was spreading inside the property. Crews were able to bring the fire under control quickly.

“Sadly, it became clear very early into the incident that a male had been involved in the blaze. He died of his injuries at the scene.

“The cause and the circumstances have been investigated by the Police and our Incident Investigation Team. The initial investigation indicates that this was a tragic accident after a garden fire has developed out of control.

“MFRS Prevention staff are planning follow-up activity in the area next week to provide reassurance to the local community.”

The deceased’s next of kin have been informed by Merseyside Police.

During these unprecedented times, it's more important than ever that we stay safe and look out for each other. If you see your neighbours, please ask them if they are ok & if they have working smoke alarms (from a social distance). If they do not, please call us on 0800 731 5958 and we arrange to have smoke alarms fitted in their home.

If you must burn garden waste, please follow the below advice:

🔘 Never use petrol or any accelerant to light a fire or to encourage it
🔘Never burn household rubbish, tyres or anything that contains paint, plastic or foam.
🔘Never leave a fire unattended and do not leave them to smoulder. Ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
🔘Do not burn close to property, trees, sheds or other outbuildings
🔘Keep a bucket of water/sand or a garden hose nearby
🔘If a fire gets out of control, dial 999 immediately.