'Big Jeff' has shared another image of the severe burns he sustained in a house fire back in June. The Bristol gig legend has adopted the life-saving phrase of ‘stop, drop and roll’ and is using social media to promote a key message from the fire rescue service.
Jeff has been moved from the Morriston Hospital in Swansea to Southmead Hospital in Bristol to continue his recovery in hospital with support from physios and occupational therapists.
Big Jeff’s art manager, Lee Dodds said last week that the ‘stop, drop and roll’ safety manoeuvre saved Jeff’s life: “It most certainly saved Jeff’s life. As a result he is able to tell his story, to try and protect others. We want to reiterate that Jeff does not drink alcohol or take drugs, so this could happen to anyone at any time.”
READ MORE: Big Jeff set to return to Bristol as his recovery continues
Mr Dodds says the fire happened on June 6 when Jeff went to see the band Amyl and the Sniffers at the O2 Academy Bristol. After the gig, he returned home to cook himself a meal, which is when the fire started.
“While he was cooking a simple meal, the bottom of his shirt caught alight on the gas hob. This resulted in a flash fire as the flames quickly spread on his clothing.
“Jeff ran to his bathroom to get himself under the shower to cool himself. His neighbours heard the cry for help and called the emergency services.
"Avon Fire & Rescue Service were the first responders, getting to the scene in five minutes from the call as they were nearby. It took 14 firefighters and three fire engines to attend the incident with everyone having a role in the scene and keeping Jeff alive before the ambulance crew were able to attend and take him to hospital.
“If Jeff had known what to do then he would have been less injured. ‘Stop, drop and roll’ is such a simple mantra and fire safety just isn’t spoken about enough. If we can make a difference to one person’s life, then that would be an amazing result.”
Jeff is now working with the Blue Watch team at Temple Fire Station to raise awareness of fire safety in the home and will be beginning a campaign on social platforms @bigjeffjohnsart.
Incidents involving cooking accounted for 49 per cent of fires that Avon Fire & Rescue Service attended last year, and 22 percent of fires Avon Fire & Rescue Service attend happen at mealtimes. The advice from the fire service is that if you see a fire or smoke, 'get out, stay out and call 999’.
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