A NORTH EAST family has been left distraught after their home of several years was left devastated by a fire on Sunday (May 29).
The fire occurred at a house on Bobbin Crescent in the Millfields area of Darlington, and the family's dog “barked uncontrollably” once the fire started.
It was at that point, Karina's partner, Becca Hadden, realised something was wrong and alerted Karina.
It is now understood that the fire was thought to have occurred due to a fault in the tumble dryer.
Ms Hadden and Ms Cawley got the baby and dog out of the house and immediately called the fire brigade at 10.08am, and it arrived at 10.11am. Fortunately, no one was harmed in the fire.
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Numerous fire engines were dispatched to the scene, where fire hoses, ladders and breathing equipment were set up.
A County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson last night said: “Reports of a house fire near Tornado Way in Darlington came into CDDFRS control around 10am on Sunday, May 29.
"Crews from Darlington, Spennymoor, Newton Aycliffe and Durham’s ALP all attended the fire.
“The fire was started by a tumble dryer, crews used breathing apparatus, hose reels and jets to extinguish the fire. Crews left the scene around 3:30pm.
"Firefighters revisited the scene later to check the property and the incident was closed at 4pm. Fortunately all persons were accounted for.”
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The property is owned by North Star Housing Group Ltd, based in Stockton and Karina and her son have been in the house less than a year.
Houses on either side of 5 Bobbin Crescent have also been evacuated as their rooves were also damaged.
Darlington Police confirmed officers were not in attendance as the fire was accidental.
The North East Ambulance Service told The Northern Echo that they were not required to attend the scene.
Two crowdfunding pages have been set up to help Karina and her baby son get back on their feet. To donate, click here or here.
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