Tenants fled a fire at a block of flats in Stroud today.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) were called to the fire in Chapel Street, Stroud, at 6.15am and three fire engines attended.

Despite the severity of the fire, which was so fierce that it melted the plastic window frames, it is believed that all residents escaped unharmed thanks to fire alarms being triggered.

One of the flats has been gutted with two next door properties also significantly smoke damaged.

It is believed that candles were the cause of the fire and GFRS would like to remind the public of the importance of making sure they are put out and never left unsupervised.

Andy Hermiston, deputy chief fire officer, said: “This fire demonstrates the potentially devastating consequences of leaving a candle unattended or accidentally knocking one over.

“Credit has to go to the resident who noticed the smoke for raising the alarm, and to Stroud District Council, who manage the block of flats.”

The properties are owned by Stroud District Council, and staff are at the scene assessing the damage.

An council spokesperson thanked the emergency services for their response this morning: “We are very grateful to the police, fire and ambulance services for their prompt actions today.

"Thankfully, although there is significant damage to three properties no-one was hurt in the incident.

"We will ensure that the residents whose flats are affected have alternative accommodation arranged."

The council has also issued a reminder to anyone living in accommodation with communal areas to keep the corridors and stairs free of clutter.

"Items left in corridors not only add fuel to a fire, but prevent people from escaping quickly, especially if visibility is poor," explained the council spokesperson.

"Fire doors must always be kept closed, as open doors create a draught which will make a fire spread much more quickly.”

Fires involving candles happen when:

  • Candles are left unattended
  • People fall asleep without putting candles out
  • The wrong kind of candle holders are used
  • Candles come into contact close to clothing and furnishings
  • Candles are knocked over by pets.

Candle advice:

These simple tips will help you to use candles safely:

  • Tea lights and nightlights in foil containers need to be placed in suitable holder as they can melt through plastic materials.
  • Tea lights burn for four hours, nightlights for about eight hours, increasing the amount of heat given out – be careful not to use nightlights in oil aromatherapy burners
  • Never leave a burning candle or oil burner in a child's bedroom
  • Keep candles out of draughts and away from furnishings and clothing
  • Keep candles and matches or lighters out of the reach of children
  • When re-lighting candles, trim the wick and extinguish if it starts to smoke
  • If using more than one candle allow 10cm between each one
  • Never burn a candle right down into the holder
  • Avoid moving a candle while it is lit
  • Always put scented candles in a glass or metal holder
  • Be aware of the risk to clothing when candles are in use
  • In the garden, keep children and pets away from garden candles and lanterns.