A Rochdale man is being hailed by fire-fighters after leading his family and pet dog to safety from a fire caused by an overheating tumble drier.
Fire crews attended the property on Huddersfield Road, Newhey, at 11.10pm on June 23, and tackled a fire in the basement of the property.
The 46-year-old man, who has not been named, was taken to Rochdale Infirmary suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation.
Watch Manager Paul Wilkinson from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue, who was in charge of the incident, said: “The family left a tumble dryer running when they went to bed and it set alight causing a substantial fire in the basement.
“Fortunately they had a working smoke alarm and the owner of the property did an excellent job at leading his family and pet dog to safety.”
Fire authorities urged people to ensure their tumble drier are properly maintained and are not left unattended for long periods of time.
Chair of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority Councillor David Acton said: “The quick actions of this man may have saved his family’s lives.
“Not only did this family have a working smoke alarm they had an escape plan – without them this incident would have been far worse.”
For advice on fire safety in the home, visit the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service website: /fire_safety_advice/home_fire_safety.aspx
For a free Home Safety Check, which may include the fitting of smoke alarms, call 0800 555 815 or visit: /fire_safety_advice/home_fire_risk_assessments.aspx
Image courtesy of GMFRS via YouTube, with thanks.
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