The Scotsman has reported that fire authorities have warned people about a potentially deadly problem with a make of fridge-freezer, after a faulty appliance went on fire. Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said the recalled fridge-freezer by manufacturer Beko was responsible for destroying the kitchen and causing extensive smoke damage at a flat on the 15th July.
The same brand has been blamed for starting three house fires in Edinburgh and the Lothians since 2010, and London fire bosses said they believed up to 500,000 of the fridge-freezers could be faulty across the UK.
The 43-year-old man said he felt “lucky to be alive” after he was awoken by a neighbour banging on his door.
Firefighters said the kitchen had been completely destroyed by the fierce fire, which had released thick “very toxic” fumes into his home.
David Lockhart, community safety manager at Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The resident was asleep when this fire broke out. He was very fortunate to wake up and discover the blaze quickly, allowing him to get out of the property, raise the alarm and ensure fire crews were on the scene promptly. Fires involving any sort of fridge-freezer produce toxic smoke, which can stop you breathing in a few breaths.
“If this fire had occurred during the night, the likelihood is it would have been much more well developed by the time it was discovered. I would urge people to take a moment to check their make and model.
“This has been a problem across the UK with the most recent case being in our own service area. Including this incident, we have recorded four fires involving Beko fridge-freezers since 2006.”
The resident, a chef, said he was grateful his wife and two children were on holiday, and said he felt “lucky” he had closed his kitchen and his bedroom door that night.
He said: “I was in a deep sleep until my neighbour banged on the door. I’ve had the fridge for about three years and if I’d had any idea about the danger, I would not have kept it.
“I’m so happy I’m alive and that all I’ve got is a bit of a smokey chest. But, of course, I am not happy and I will be in touch with Beko.
“My kitchen is completely destroyed and it could have caused huge damage. I live in a block with lots of families.
If you have a Beko fridge freezer you can check if it may be affected on Beko’s website.
