A WOMAN had a ‘lucky escape’ after neighbours heard the smoke alarm sounding and became concerned after trying to alert them by ringing their doorbell and getting no reply at a house in King Street, Dawlish.

Three fire appliances from Dawlish and Teignmouth were on scene within minutes of the initial call yesterday (Tuesday) at around 2.20am.

Describing the woman as having had a ‘lucky escape, a Fire Control spokesperson added: ‘Crews gained entry to the two storey property and located the fire in the ground floor kitchen involving unattended food left on the cooker hob.

‘The female occupant was located in the property and rescued by crews suffering from smoke inhalation.

‘Once outside she was given medical attention by crews until the arrival of ambulance paramedics.

‘The small fire was extinguished quickly using a hose reel jet, followed by a thermal imaging camera to check for hotspots, with crews confirming the incident as being under control at 0311hrs.

‘While there was no fire or smoke damage to the property, the whole house was smoke logged and ventilated naturally before being left in the hands of the occupier.’