FIRE chiefs have issued a warning about the use of candles after a cat apparently started a blaze after knocking a cushion onto a tealight.

Three people had to be led to safety by crews wearing breathing apparatus after the living room fire at Longley Road, Rochester, early today.

Crews were called to the flat in Longley Road, Rochester, at 3.50am. Fortunately a fire door prevented the flames from spreading any further.

The occupants of three surrounding flats were also evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Initial signs suggest the fire started near a sofa and a table. A man was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital where he was treated for burns after attempting to put the fire out himself.

A woman also received medical attention at the scene.

Strood station manager Phil Rice, said: "It is believed that the residents had left a tealight burning and, some hours later, the cat was running around and knocked a cushion onto it.

"They did not have a working smoke alarm so they are very lucky to have survived this and we hope others take notice.

"Make sure candles are used safely and make sure you have a working smoke alarm or we could be reflecting on a tragedy."