News / Blaze destroys family home
A BRAND new family home in Vidlin was completely destroyed by fire on Wednesday night.
There were three family members in the house when the fire started. They all managed to leave the property and didn’t need any medical treatment.
A total of 22 fire fighters from Lerwick, Brae, Scalloway, Bixter and Hillswick were tackling the blaze all night.
They were called out at 8.36pm and the last appliance left the scene at 4.50am on Thursday morning.
They used three main jets and two hose reel jets attempting to get the blaze under control but could not save the property.
Incident commander Derek Wilkie said: “The Brae crew were first on scene and when they arrived they were met with a well-developed fire in the garage area which adjoined the house.
“Both structures were of timber construction and the fire condition was exacerbated by the high winds. These factors made it an extremely challenging job for the crews, but they tackled the fire in their usual professional manner.”
“We also had to cool some gas cylinders which were in the vicinity of the fire. We fought the fire in sectors and used a thermal imaging camera.”
In a short Facebook message, James Bedding confirmed that everyone in the family was safe.
“I was unfortunately home, and witnessed the devastating fire, which has really hurt my family, mostly my dad.
“It’s was such a horrible thing to happen and thanks for the fire brigade for coming to try help but unfortunately they took too long to come. The house is now just ashes.
“Thank you everyone for the sympathy messages, and as my brother said, my family and the two dogs are all okay!”
Acting chief inspector Paul Daley said on Thursday morning: “Despite being a substantial blaze, fortunately the three occupants of the property managed to escape without injury.
“Officers remain in attendance to protect the scene. Working in conjunction with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will allow for a full investigation to take place to determine the cause of the fire, but there does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances at this time.”
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