The blaze is believed to have been started by a faulty electrical charger
An urgent appeal has been launched to support a young mother and her four children who lost “almost everything they owned” after their home was destroyed in a devastating blaze.
The fire, which broke out in Bro Rhos, Bethel, near Caernarfon, is thought to have been ignited by a faulty electrical charger on Tuesday. Firefighters from several nearby stations raced to the scene to battle the flames, with the road closed while emergency services attended the incident.
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up by Hannah Hughes to help the family start afresh. By 1.10pm on Wednesday, more than £7,800 had been raised towards a £10,000 target. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here.
Local residents are also collecting physical donations of clothing, toys and household goods, as well as seeking urgent temporary housing for the family, reports North Wales Live.
In a statement posted on the GoFundMe page, Hannah Hughes wrote: “In just a few heartbreaking moments, the lives of a young mum and her four children were changed forever.
“Today, their family home in Bethel, near Caernarfon, was devastated by a house fire. While we are incredibly thankful that they are safe, they have lost almost everything they owned.
“Their home, their belongings, their treasured memories, and the sense of security that every family deserves have all been taken from them.
“No parent ever imagines having to tell their children that they have nothing left to go home to. This young family is now facing the unimaginable – trying to comfort four frightened children while wondering what tomorrow will bring. They urgently need our help as they begin the long journey of rebuilding their lives.”
Two girls, aged 13 and eight, and two boys, aged 10 and four, lived at the property.
The GoFundMe statement continued: “As a community, we have an opportunity to remind this family that they are not facing this alone. Every donation, no matter how small, will help provide the essentials they now desperately need – clothing, food, toiletries, school items, furniture, appliances, and the everyday necessities that most of us take for granted.
“The funds will also help ease the financial pressure while they secure temporary accommodation and begin to rebuild their lives. If you are unable to donate financially, there are many other ways you can help.
“We are looking for donations of children’s clothing, toys, bikes, furniture, appliances, and other household essentials. If you have something to give, please post it on the community page Cymuned Bethel (Facebook) so collection can be arranged or Contact Caffi’r Bedol, Bethel.
“We are also urgently looking for a house to rent in Bethel, either through a private landlord or a housing association. Any leads would be hugely appreciated. For anyone wishing to make an immediate cash donation, a collection pot has been placed at Bedol Bethel. Bethel has always been a community that looks after its own.
“Now is the time to come together once again. Whether you can donate £5, £50, offer an item, or simply share this fundraiser, you are helping to give this family hope at a time when they need it most.
“Please keep this family in your thoughts, and if you are able, help us show them that even after the darkest day, they are surrounded by compassion, kindness, and a community that cares. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for any support you can give.
“Efforts to support the family are already well underway across the village, with residents being urged to coordinate physical donations and local housing leads to help the mother and her children recover from the disaster.”
A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 15:05 yesterday (15 July) to a property fire in Bethel. Firefighters from Caernarfon, Bangor and Colwyn Bay attended. The fire is believed to have been caused by a faulty charger.
“This incident is a reminder that electrical fires can happen at any time. Chargers can become very hot, so never leave items charging unattended or for long periods.
“Always switch off the charger at the plug, even when it is not connected to a device. Do not mix and match chargers or use aftermarket versions; always use the charger supplied with the device.
“Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using electrical items and switch them off and unplug them before going to bed. Be prepared for a fire by ensuring you have working smoke alarms in your home and keeping escape routes clear so you and your family to exit your home as quickly as possible.”
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