Firefighters issue warning on tumble dryers after family rescued from Arnold house fire

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Firefighters say appliances should not be left on unattended overnight. (Stock photo)

Firefighters issued a warning about using tumble dryers overnight after a family of three had to be rescued from a blaze which tore through their Arnold home.

The fire broke out at the house on Calverton Road at 12.23am on Sunday (January 28) after the dryer burst into flames.

It began to spread and fill the property with smoke, trapping the family of three upstairs.

Neighbours used a ladder to rescue all three from a window. They escaped unhurt and crews from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service put out the fire but the house was left badly damaged.

Station Manager Jonathan Holford attended the incident, and said: “This incident had the potential to have more serious consequences, and the family are lucky to be alive thanks to their neighbour.

“Never wait for the smell of smoke to wake you up and always buy yourself time to safely exit your property in the event of a fire by installing smoke alarms and testing them regularly.

“You might think that we as a service talk a lot about smoke alarms, but I cannot stress enough that such a simple measure can save your life and those of your loved ones.”

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The fire broke out in a house on Calverton Road, Arnold.

Firefighters believe the drier which caught fire may have been subject to a recall notice, but were unable to confirm the make or model.

They also advised people not to leave driers switched on unattended overnight, and to keep doors closed to help limit the spread of a fire if one starts.

Station Manager Holford added: “It is also important to check for any recalls on your white goods which could mean that they are at risk of fault, or even fire.

“It could be that you have had a letter from the manufacturer of your appliance, and if this is the case, I would urge you to take action as soon a possible. We would always advise you to follow the advice of the manufacturer, and alternatively, you can check on their website for the latest recalls.”