Whilst We Were Sleeping

We had storms last night. Not as bad as last year around our way but there is the odd village cut off by the river.

My story is not about those although the thunder may have masked other noises.

You know how they tell you not to leave electrical products plugged in at night?

You know how tumble driers seem to have a bad reputation for bursting into flame?

You know how despite that information you can't really be bothered plugging it in and unplugging it again each time?

Well if you don't, the potential result is.......

When we got up this morning we came downstairs. There was a bit of a burning smell. We went in the kitchen. There was the sound of gushing water in our utility room. There were scorch marks round the door. The door felt cold, the handle felt cold. We opened the door whilst holding a fire extinguisher. (A legal requirement in all houses in France). No fire, but there had been.

We don't know how it started other than the tumble drier is the seat of the fire. It wasn't being used. The process appears to have been - fire starts - gets properly underway burning and melting items - burns through the incoming water piped for washing machine and water heater - water under mains pressure goes absolutely everywhere and douses the flames. And not a moment too soon.

Insurance company advised and are on the case.

It's a bit of a bastard but it could have been a damn sight worse. At least we are here to be able to be fed up about it.