Candle Warning After House Fire Causes Major Damage

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service is warning people about the dangers of candles after a fire caused major damage to a house in Lutterworth.

The fire broke out in a bedroom on Church Street just after 5am on Monday, after a candle set fire to a towel and the flames spread.

Fire crews from Leicestershire and Warwickshire tackled the blaze, and photos showing the scale of the damage have been released to HFM.

Damage inside the house. Pic: Leics Fire & Rescue Service

Around 80 per cent of the first floor was damaged, with smoke damage to the second floor. No-one was injured.

The incident happened during Candle Fire Safety Week, which highlights the risks posed by unattended candles and open flames.

Damage outside and inside the house. Pic: Leics Fire & Rescue Service

Fire crews are reminding people to take simple precautions to help keep their homes safe.

These include never leaving a burning candle unattended, keeping candles away from curtains and other flammable materials, and making sure they are out of reach of children and pets.

Residents are also being urged to test their smoke alarms and ensure everyone in the household knows the escape plan in the event of a fire.

A bed was among items destroyed by the blaze