'Get out, stay out' fire warning

Fire chiefs have urged householders to "get out and stay out" after one man was overcome by smoke when he tried to put out flames himself at his home.

The fire at Dolgarrog, Conwy, was caused by a television overheating after being left on standby.

The fire service's Paul Jenkinson urged people to resist the urge to protect property and stay way from fire.

The alarm was raised on Saturday by a neighbour who heard the smoke alarm at the semi-detached property.

This man was very lucky to have escaped uninjured Paul Jenkinson, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service

The owner was not at home at the time, but on his return tried to enter the premises to put out the fire.

He was overcome by smoke, but managed to get out of the building and received a precautionary check from paramedics.

Mr Jenkinson said: "The best thing to do is evacuate - get out, stay out and contact the fire and rescue service.

"This man was very lucky to have escaped uninjured - especially as this fire had the potential of turning into a very serious fire which was why an additional appliance was called to the scene."

The fire also showed the importance of having a working smoke alarm, Mr Jenkinson added.

"In fact the fire and rescue service had carried out a home fire safety check at this property just 18 months ago, which proved to have been crucial in this case."

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offer a free service for all residents to help formulate a fire escape plan, give fire safety hints and tips, and if necessary, fit new smoke alarms free of charge.