Blaze picture shows fire impact

The fire was "well developed" by the time the fire service arrived

Homeowners have been urged to ensure they have working smoke alarms fitted following a flat fire in Dumfries.

The fire service has released images of the incident in the town's Crathie Avenue at about 0330 BST on Saturday.

They were faced with a "well developed" fire with smoke and flames coming out of the front door and a hallway window.

The residents escaped before the blaze took hold but the fire service said the lack of a smoke alarm meant the outcome could have been "much more serious".

Three fire engines tackled the incident while it was at its peak.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus put out the flames and then searched for people in the flat.

Joint investigation

"Fortunately the residents of the flat had escaped prior to the arrival of the fire and rescue service and no-one was injured as a result of the fire," said a fire service spokesman.

"A joint fire investigation is being carried out between the fire and rescue service and the police into the cause of the fire.

"A smoke alarm was not fitted within the flat, which could have led to a much more serious outcome to the fire."

Anyone who does not have a working smoke alarm can contact the fire service for a free home safety check when a free alarm can be provided.