A FAMILY had a lucky escape when a fire broke out on the first floor landing at their home in Kendal.

Two crews were called to the blaze at Echo Barn Hill at 4.20pm on Wednesday.

Watch manager Tony Harrison said they were given early warning by smoke alarms in the house.

“It was a small fire but had the potential to have a major impact because it was in the centre of the house. We removed the burning items, which were a pile of clothes and some carpet on fire, outside and were able to extinguished the flames using one hose reel.

“The family had already got themselves outside by the time we arrived.”

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Mr Harrison urged residents to make sure they have smoke alarms fitted and everybody in the house is clear what to do in case of a fire.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service offers free home safety visits to help householders identify potential fire hazards in their homes.

The service can include designing a 'fire plan' and in some cases smoke detectors can be fitted free of charge.

To arrange a visit contact freephone 0800 358 4777.