Firefighters from multiple stations throughout the area responded to the blaze on Monday afternoon, June 6. The incident occurred in Feilding Close in the Walsgrave on Sowe district of Coventry.
Photographs taken by the Coventry Telegraph demonstrate the severity of damage caused by the barbecue fire. Emergency services confirmed the fire began accidentally when a gas barbecue ignited a wooden fence, spreading rapidly to a garden storage building and subsequently reaching three residential properties. The flames also engulfed a number of vehicles parked nearby. Fortunately, no individuals sustained serious injuries.
A representative from West Midlands Fire Service provided details about the incident, stating that the flames consumed approximately a quarter of the roofing across three homes. Firefighters maintained a presence at the location until the evening hours, extinguishing remaining hot spots. Crews conducted overnight inspections to monitor the situation.
The fire service official also offered guidance regarding barbecue safety, emphasising that while outdoor cooking should be pleasant and risk-free, it is common for people to become preoccupied with companions while preparing food. The representative strongly cautioned against applying petrol, methylated spirits, or other flammable substances to barbecues, noting that some of the most severe burn injuries occur when these liquids cause an explosive reaction.
West Midlands Ambulance Service also attended the scene, being summoned at approximately 2:50pm. A single ambulance vehicle arrived at the property on Feilding Close. One firefighter required assessment by paramedics but did not necessitate additional medical intervention, receiving guidance on self-care before being released. Another individual at the scene refused paramedic assistance after being given self-care recommendations.
