Logs near open fire start blaze

Logs caught fire at a house in Rochdale after they were left too close to an open fire.

Fire-fighters from Rochdale Fire Station were called to a house on Charles Lane, Milnrow, just after midnight on Sunday (5 February).

A next-door neighbour raised the alarm after the smoke alarms in their house went off.
Two fire-fighters in breathing apparatus went in, extinguished the blaze with a hose reel and used a fan to clear the smoke.

They discovered that logs left in the fire place next to the open fire had caught light.

The crews offered the resident a Home Safety Check, who declined the offer.

Fire-fighters carried out a Home Safety Check for the neighbour who first raised the alarm and fitted two new smoke alarms.

For a Home Safety Check, which may include GMFRS fitting up to two free smoke alarms, please call 0800 555 815.

Advice for using open fires and electric or gas heaters: 

• Don't place heaters near curtains or furnishing, and never use them for drying clothes.
• Do not sit too close to fires or heaters, your clothing or chair could catch fire.
• Always use a fire guard with open fires, especially if you have young children, elderly or disabled people in the property. It is recommended that the fire guard should be in a fixed position.
• Avoid storing items too close to an open fire.
• Portable gas heaters should be checked for leaks and refilled outside in the open air.
• Always place heaters in a position where they cannot be easily knocked over.
• Try to choose electric heaters that have automatic safety switches that turn off the unit if it is tipped over accidentally.
• Check the power lead before plugging in the electric heater; if frayed, worn or broken, do not use, replace the heater.
• Never use an extension lead with a portable heater.