Firefighters have hit back at claims that retained fire crews are reacting slowly to fatal blazes.

Questions have been raised by a number of people about Shoreham fire station's working practices after four fatal fires on its patch in the last 13 months.

The latest blaze killed Emma Macintosh, 25, on Saturday morning and follows the deaths of Gwen Thresh in March, 2005, Michael Jacob in December and Arthur Mann in March, 2006.

All the fires started during evenings or nights - when Shoreham is covered by retained, rather than full-time fire fighters.

But fire service chiefs have dismissed speculation that Shoreham crews could have arrived faster at Ms Mactinosh's home in Albion Street.

They have also hit back at criticism, including comments posted on The Argus website, over the practice of using both full time and retained fire fighters at Shoreham.

Gary Towson, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "This is a devastating tragedy for the family who never wanted their loss to be debated in this way.

"While as a service we would highlight the dangers of not having smoke alarms, we should respect the family and we will not enter into a speculative debate."

There has also been praise for the emergency services who attended the scene on Saturday morning, including the family of Ms Macintosh and local residents.

Fire fighters have focused their attention on the fact that the fatal deaths in Shoreham occurred in circumstances they believe were largely preventable.

Emma Macintosh had no smoke alarm fitted and the blaze which killed her started from a cooker while she slept on a sofa after a night out.

Gwen Thresh and Arthur Mann both died after discarded cigarettes set their homes on fire, possibly while both were asleep.

Mr Towson added: "We have got to drum home the message that every home should have a smoke alarm fitted and that people must be careful about fire."

After each of the deaths fire crews from Shoreham have visited hundreds of homes in the surrounding neighbourhoods distributing leaflets, giving free advice and fitting smoke alarms free of charge.

The fire and rescue service's education vehicle has also been stationed near to the blazes to offer further advice.

Crews also regularly pay visits to schools and other organisations for one-off education sessions.

Tributes to Ms Macintosh and condolences to her family have continued to be posted on The Argus website.

Jo, from Wales, said: "Dear Andy, Laura, Jackie, Les and Tyler. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. See you very soon. Lots of love mum and Rob xxx."

Keith, from Fishersgate, said: "I knew Emma well. My sympathy's to Jackie and Andrew and Tyler and everyone else that knew and loved this beautiful young women.

"She was always fun to be around and will be missed terribly. Keith and Sandy."

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