Neighbours inspect the damage at the property

by Tim Collins

A family from High Halden
had a lucky escape, after a wood-burning stove set fire to their
home.

Kent Fire and Rescue
Service (KFRS) were called to deal with the blaze, which had broken
out at a home in Ashford Road this morning.

A woman and her son, who
were sleeping in the bungalow, remained unaware of what was
happening until quick-thinking neighbours saw the smoke, rang 999
and woke the pair - who were able to get out of the house.

Heat from the
wood-burner's flue appears to have set fire to wooden shingles near
to its vent, with the fire spreading to the roof of the bungalow.

Smoke alarms had been
taken down as the property was being decorated.

"this was a very lucky escape for the family"– crew manager jason hills

Jason Hills, crew manager from Ashford fire station, said:
"This was a very lucky escape for the family thanks to the
quick action of their neighbours.

"We would advise anyone using an open fire or a wood burning
stove to treat them with caution and take note of our safety
and maintenance tips.

“It is also a reminder to
everyone that taking a smoke alarm down even for a short period is
never a good idea.

“Fire can happen at any time, and alarms are vital for your protection."

Crews manning three appliances arrived shortly after 8am, and put out the fire using breathing apparatus, compressed air foam and jets.

The roof of the timber frame bungalow was severely damaged by the fire and though the ground floor did not suffer from the fire there was extensive water and smoke damage.

For more advice on using wood burning stoves, click here.