Firefighters attend chip pan fire in Midlothian

Firefighters were called to a chip pan fire in Midlothian last night around 7.25pm.

The blaze occurred in a flat in Hunterfield Terrace, Gorebridge and appliances from Dalkieth, Musselburgh, Newcraighall, Marionville and Liberton fire stations attended.

Six firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire in the top floor flat and treated the male occupant for smoke inhalation until the arrival of Scottish Ambulance Service. He did not require hospital treatment.

An SFRS spokesperson said: “Our advice to anyone who does experience a fire within the home is to get out, stay out and call us out.  Close the door behind you and never try to tackle a fire yourself. 

“More fires begin in the kitchen than in any other room of the house and traditional chip pans are a particularly high fire risk. We would urge everyone take a few simple steps to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“By never leaving pans unattended while in use and by keeping any flammable materials, such as kitchen towels, etc., away from sources of ignition, we can dramatically reduce the chance of fire starting.

“Chip pan fires very quickly spread flames, toxic smoke and heat so having early warning is vital to preventing serious injury or worse. There is much less chance of someone being seriously hurt or killed by fire if a house is protected by working smoke alarms.

“Having a smoke alarm fitted can limit the damage to property by allowing firefighters the chance to respond earlier to extinguish the fire. Working smoke alarms provide householders with an early warning that will enable them to escape the property during the early stages and can prevent injuries and deaths caused by fire.

“If you or someone you know could benefit from a visit, please join Scotland’s fight against fire and request a visit by calling the SFRS freephone number 0800 0731 999 or by contacting their local fire station.”

A wide range of tips on how to keep yourself and your home safe from fire are available on the SFRS website: www.firescotland.gov.uk