A SERIOUS FIRE

Southland Times, Issue 19396, 10 November 1924, Page 5

A SERIOUS FIRE

FAMILY’S NARROW ESCAPE A WOMAN’S RESOURCE HUSBAND OVERCOME IN BURNING HOUSE But for the resourcefulness and the gallant action of a woman, a fire which occurred in Selwyn Street in the early hours of Sunday morning, would probably have been attended with fatal results. The house was owned and occupied by Mr J. Stevenson, his wife, and two children and when the family retired to bed on Saturday night, everything appeared to be in order. About 4.30 a.m. however, Mrs Stevenson was awakened by heat and smoke. The fire then had a strong hold and the greater part of the house was enveloped in flames. She immediately awakened her husband and with difficulty rescued the children, the family barely escaping in their night attire. The fire was then burning too fiercely to allow of an attempt being made to save any of the furniture. Mr Stevenson, however, decided to endeavour to retrieve some money, which had been left in the front bedrocm. Re-entering the house he managed to reach the bedroom, but was then overcome by the smoke. As her husband did not re-appear as soon as she expected Mrs Stevenson smashed in the bedroom window and succeeded in dragging Mr Stevenson through the window into safety. Her prompt action probably saved her husband’s life as he had already received burns to the head. The house, which is situated just beyond the town boundary, was completely destroyed. Both the house and furniture were insured in the Guardian Office.