A family from Horsham, West Sussex lost their belongings in a fire that started in the building below their flat. Simba Chitsatso and his family fled their home after a fire began in the Gardner and Scardifield building on Saturday night. The blaze required 10 fire engines, and 18 people were evacuated from the area. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and authorities believe the fire was accidental.
Chitsatso said they only had time to take their passports before leaving their home. He explained that he had friends for dinner and was not aware of the fire that arose at 10:00 GMT. He heard someone knocking on his door, screaming that he needs to leave immediately because there is a fire. Chitsatso commanded everyone to leave, as he felt the heat when he opened the bedroom door, fearing that the room could explode anytime.
After the fire, people donated clothes and school uniforms to the family. A fundraiser launched by the community raised more than £18,500. Furthermore, the family’s employer allows them to stay in a guest house located in the nearby Mannings Heath Golf Club. Chitsatso recounted how he was comforted by the community’s kindness, which he found astonishing. He added that he had never encountered such generosity in his entire life and was shocked when people he had not met offered to help him during this tragic time.
Chitsatso found the community’s response to the incident amazing and awe-inspiring. He is thankful that they are alive, even though they had to lose everything. The community’s compassion and contribution helped them a lot during this difficult time.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service officers said they worked hard to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings. Regular re-inspections are carried out to ensure that there are no hotspots
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