UPDATE: A family in Liverpool faces an unimaginable Christmas after a fire devastated their home on December 11, leaving them homeless. Claire Sayonas, 39, her partner Jack Wood, 32, and their two daughters, Daisy, 16, and Jay, 18, will wake up in temporary accommodation instead of their family home.
The fire began when a tumble dryer caught fire, creating chaos and confusion in their home on Sleepers Hill. Claire was at home with Daisy when she heard a “little pop” from the kitchen. “I didn’t think much of it because we have cats and thought maybe they had knocked something over,” she said. However, as Claire rushed to investigate, she discovered smoke pouring from the dryer.
“I opened the water draw and smoke came gushing out,” Claire recalled. “I shouted for my daughter, who was in the shower.”
At 6:15 PM, Claire called emergency services. Firefighters from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service arrived within five minutes to confront the blaze. Claire and Daisy, who had evacuated the house, watched as their home filled with smoke.
Fortunately, the firefighters were able to rescue the family’s dog through a window, and later located their kittens, who were unharmed. “The firefighters were absolutely amazing through it all,” Claire expressed. Neighbors quickly rallied, offering clothes and shelter to the family as smoke billowed into adjacent homes, prompting further evacuations.
The family is currently placed in a serviced apartment by Your Housing Group, where they will spend Christmas. “We have lost many items, but we know these things can be replaced. However, that house was a very safe space for us,” Claire shared, emphasizing the emotional toll of their sudden displacement. “It’s heartbreaking. We are trying so hard to stay positive, but we are struggling massively.”
Compounding their plight, Claire revealed the family was not insured, stating, “We never dreamed this would happen.” A fundraising page has been established to support the family in their time of need, which can be found online.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that three fire engines responded to the incident at 6:15 PM, with firefighters extinguishing the fire in the ground floor kitchen. They completed their operations and left the scene by 7:52 PM. “Home Fire Safety Checks were completed on adjacent properties to ensure no fire or smoke spread,” the spokesperson noted.
Your Housing Group expressed sympathy for the family’s situation, especially during the festive season, stating, “Our priority has been to make sure Claire and her family are safe and supported. We’ve arranged temporary accommodation and will continue providing help while we plan for their longer-term housing.”
This tragic incident highlights the urgency of fire safety awareness, especially during the holiday season. As the Sayonas family prepares for Christmas in unfamiliar surroundings, community support will be vital in helping them rebuild their lives.
For those wishing to assist the family, please consider donating through their fundraising page. Every contribution can make a significant difference as they navigate this challenging time.
