13 October 2008

Firefighters led a man and woman to safety after a fire broke out in the laundry room of a sheltered housing complex on Saturday evening.

Crews from High Wycombe and Beaconsfield were called to Nickson Court, in Highfield Way, Hazlemere, at 8.21pm.

Group Manager Greg Smith, who also attended the incident, said: “When we arrived, the building was beginning to fill with smoke.

“Two people hadn't evacuated from the first floor, but with the help of a staff member we ascertained who the missing people were and where they were.

“Firefighters were able to locate them quickly and lead them to safety while other firefighters dealt with the fire.”

Two men were treated for the effects of breathing in smoke. An investigation has begun into the cause of the fire, which is believed to have started in a tumble dryer.

Firefighters were at the scene for two and a half hours. They used six sets of breathing apparatus, two hose reels and a Positive Pressure Ventilation fan.

Click here to find out more about tumble dryer, washing machine and dishwasher fires.