FIREFIGHTERS were called to save a person from a kitchen fire in Blackburn this evening.

The incident occurred at a house in Dundee Drive just before 6.30pm and the emergency services were told of the problem after a neighbour spotted smoke from the kitchen window called 999.

Two fire engines from Blackburn and one from Hyndburn attended the scene.

Acting watch manager Lee Garnett said: "The neighbour said that there was a person still inside.

"On investigation a microwave oven had developed a fault which caused the unit to set on fire."

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and escorted the person outside to administer oxygen due to smoke inhalation.

Ventilation fans were used to remove smoke from the property.

The fire service also said how important smoke alarms are to avoid such incidents.

Mr Garnett said: "Smoke alarms save lives, You are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home if you haven’t got one. A smoke alarm is the easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you and your family precious time to escape."

For a free Home Fire Safety Check, advice and smoke alarm test or replacement, visit www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk