Safety warning to log burner owners after Cambridgeshire firefighters rescue dog from house blaze
Firefighters have issued advice to residents using log burners and open fires this winter after rescuing a dog from a blaze.
Huntingdon firefighters were called to a house fire last week caused by hot ashes from a log burner – and saved the life of a pet dog inside.
The crews were alerted at around 3pm on Tuesday, December 2, to the fire in Godmanchester, after a person delivering a parcel to the address raised the alarm.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly entered the property to tackle the fire.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: "They located a missing dog, who was found and brought to safety before being treated with a Smokey Paws oxygen mask, specially designed to fit over an animal’s muzzle to help support its breathing after smoke inhalation.
“Luckily, the fire was found early which limited the damage and allowed the dog to be saved.”
The fire was caused by the “unsafe disposal of hot ashes from a log burner”.
“With colder weather approaching more of us will be using fireplaces and stoves to keep our homes warm,” the spokesperson went on. “We would like to remind residents of the importance of safely disposing of ash. Even when it appears cool, embers can remain hot for many hours and easily ignite nearby materials.
“Please ensure ashes are placed in a metal container, stored well away from combustible items, and left to cool completely.”
They added: “A big well done must go to the crew for their swift actions and we’re pleased to report the dog is recovering well.”