Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Molesworth Terrace, Millbrook, near Torpoint at 29/04/2007 05:23

A family of three were awoken by their smoke alarms sounding when a television caught fire. They were able to escape to a place of safety and call out the fire brigade.

Two fire appliances attended from Torpoint and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the smoke-filled house and found that the fire was already out.

The Officer-in-Charge of Torpoint Fire Station, Station Officer Derek Hunt, said "the smoke alarms in the house certainly saved the lives of this family. The early indication of the fire allowed them to escape from the toxic smoke and attempts were even made to extinguish the fire." Mr Hunt added "there were two linked mains powered smoke alarms with battery back-up placed at the top and bottom of the stairs in the house. These were in the ideal position to protect the family."

Anyone requiring advice on fire safety can call the Fire Safety Helpline free on 0800 3581 999.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=1722