THE fire service has called for drivers to park their cars off the road where possible and to consider the emergency services when parking.

Two people were rushed to hospital following a house fire in Bedwardine Road, St John’s, on October 22.

Worcester News readers commented on the story following the fire and claimed that residents were forced to knock on neighbours’ doors to ask them to move their vehicles to allow the fire engines to come down the road.

Fire Station Commander, Lee Watson said: “It was tight for the fire engines to get into the road itself. The roads are very small anyway so it can be difficult at times.

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“I wasn’t aware of any residents knocking on neighbours’ doors. I think it’s common all over the country where cars park on roads.

“We appreciate how difficult it is to park at times. We are keen to put the message out there to remind drivers to park safely and consider emergency services when accessing roads.”

Fire crews remained at the scene overnight and further re-inspections were carried out at 6am and 10am the following morning.

Fire officers will carry out an investigation into the cause of the fire, although it is not thought to be suspicious.

A West Mercia police officer was first on the scene, after two people were alerted by a smoke alarm to a kitchen fire, thought to be caused by unattended cooking.

The fire was put out by six crews from Worcester, Droitwich, Malvern and Pershore fire stations, using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets.

Mr Watson added: “Although this fire was serious and the property has been severely damaged, working smoke alarms ensured it did not turn into a tragedy.

“Fire crews worked extremely hard to extinguish the fire and prevent further damage to other people’s homes. It was an effective multi-agency response with our colleagues from the police and ambulance service. We also recognise and appreciate the support of the neighbouring community who were extremely cooperative.”