Man says arson and delayed firefighters put his life at risk

Nov 18 2008 by Andrew Hirst, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Man says arson and delayed firefighters put his life at risk

His wife had suffered from the effects of breathing in smoke and paramedics check her, but she did not want to go to hospital.

A fire brigade spokesman said there was careful planning so that when firefighters from main stations were called to deal with major incidents fire engines from other areas went on standby at their stations to provide cover.

An engine came from Dewsbury to cover Huddersfield fire station, but within a minute of arriving was called out at 2.17am to deal with another car fire.

He said the first call from Mr Ansell came a minute later and the next nearest appliance was at the part-time station in Meltham.

Crews were alerted and the engine was at the house at 2.32am.

The spokesman added: “It was a very unfortunate and rare set of circumstances.”

If you have any information about this incident phone police in Huddersfield on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.