Going to blazes

Smoke from the blaze, in Goring Way, could be seen from a mile away and the front room was completely destroyed.

Two occupants fled the bungalow unharmed and were taken to hospital for a check-up.

An investigation into the fire is being carried out, although it was believed it could have been started by a cigarette. The bungalow was not fitted with a smoke alarm.

Worthing firefighter, Sub Officer Darren Wickings, said: "When we arrived on the scene, the entire front living room was well alight. There was a large column of smoke that could be seen from a mile away and flames were shooting into the garden.

"We sent out three appliances from Worthing and one from East Preston and it took about 10 minutes to get the blaze under control."

The road was closed by police almost immediately.

Sub Officer Wickings said it would be "months" before the bungalow became habitable, adding: "The plaster on the walls in the living room has completely burned off, leaving just brick. There has been a lot of smoke and heat damage."

He urged everyone to buy a smoke alarm and maintain it properly.

"This is a life-saving piece of equipment. The occupants got out but, had this fire happened at night time, the outcome could have been different. We would ask everyone to ensure they have a smoke alarm and test it weekly. This simple test can save a life. We also ask everyone to come up with an escape plan so they know what to do should a fire occur.

"When it comes to smoking materials, we would ask everyone to make sure they are fully extinguished and any ashtrays emptied into metal bins outside."The occupants were very shaken and shocked. They have lost a lot. Some things can be replaced but it's the sentimental items, such as photos, that are irreplaceable."