Electrical fault sparks appartment blaze

Firefighters have urged the public to ensure their electrical appliances are not faulty after an LCD television set alight in Rochdale.

Crews from Rochdale Fire Station were called to an apartment on Bridgefold Road after the resident was alerted to the blaze.

Four firefighters in breathing apparatus tackled the fire, which was confined to the ground floor of the apartment with two hose reels.

Crews used a high pressure fan to clear the heavily smoke logged property and a thermal imaging camera to ensure the fire was completely extinguished.

The blaze was caused by faulty leads to the television caused extensive heat and smoke damage to the lounge of the property.

Chairman of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor David Acton, said: “Thankfully on this occasion no one was injured in the fire but unfortunately it has caused extensive damage to this person’s property.

“Electrical appliances should be serviced once a year by a qualified electrician and plugs, sockets and cables need to be wired and used correctly using the correct fuse.

“If an adaptor is needed always use bar adaptors on a lead rather than block adaptors and never plug one adaptor into another.”

If there is an electrical fire, pull the plug out, or switch off the power at the fuse box - if it is safe to do so. Sometimes this can stop the fire immediately.

Never use water on an electrical fire, and don't take any risks with your safety - get out, stay out and call 999.