An 87-year-old woman with Alzheimer's was rescued from her burning home in Leicestershire thanks to the quick thinking of her brave neighbours.
Phyllis Day, who has been living alone since her husband's passing in 2018, was awoken by her rescuers as flames engulfed her home. Pav Sarpal, 28, and Stephan Smart, 44, took turns carrying her down the stairs to safety, as the fire caused widespread damage to the three-bedroom detached property.
The fire is believed to have started in the kitchen or utility room due to an electrical fault. Suzanne, Phyllis' full-time carer and daughter, was alerted to the fire by her doorbell camera's intercom system and watched from afar as her husband drove the five miles to Phyllis' home.
Phyllis' lack of hearing aids, which she removes before bed, meant she was unable to hear the smoke alarms that were triggered by the fire. The quick action of her neighbours likely saved her life, as well as that of her rescuers, who suffered from smoke inhalation.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service has warned the public not to enter buildings that are on fire, as doing so can put more lives at risk. However, in this instance, the neighbours' bravery and selflessness undoubtedly saved Phyllis' life.
Phyllis will now be staying with her daughter Suzanne until her home is repaired. The family is grateful for the neighbours' heroism and has praised their selfless actions.
The fire has left the family shaken, but grateful for the bravery of their neighbours. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for working smoke alarms in every home.
Phyllis' rescue is a testament to the kindness and bravery of the community, and a reminder that in times of crisis, it's the neighbours who can make all the difference.
The family is now focusing on rebuilding their home and supporting Phyllis in her recovery from the traumatic event.
Phyllis' rescue has left a lasting impact on the community, and a reminder of the importance of looking out for one another in times of need.
