Tumble drier causes blaze at house in Whitworth

Phil Greenwood from the Fire and Rescue Service fits a smoke alarm

Fire tore through a house after a tumble drier burst into flames at a house in Whitworth.

Firefighters were called to the property on Market Street yesterday lunchtime.

Crew Manager Clayton Campbell from Rochdale Fire Station said: “Thankfully smoke alarms fitted correctly at the house raised the alarm after the lady had put some washing in, so she was able to get out safely.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus put the fire out before using a fan to disperse the smoke.

“We would urge everyone to check their smoke alarm.

“If need be you can book a Home Safety Check with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service where we will come to your house and talk through fire safety and may involve us fitting smoke alarms.

“Also it’s a good idea to keep an eye on washing machines and driers and preferably don’t leave them on when you’re not at home.”

The fire severely damaged the drier in the kitchen with smoke logging to the rest of the house.

For more information on washing machine safety go to http://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/1509.aspx