Elderly man hurt in Kendal fire (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Elderly man hurt in Kendal fire

2:24pm Tuesday 29th May 2012 in News By Steven Bell, Senior Reporter

AN elderly man has been taken to hospital after fire ripped through a property in Kendal this afternoon.

Fire-fighters wearing breathing apparatus entered a building on Milnthorpe Road to rescue the 79-year-old, after receiving a call at 1.50pm.

A North West Ambulance Service spokesman said the man was suffering from smoke inhalation and being treated at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

Three fire engines, from Kendal, Milnthorpe and Staveley, were called to the scene along with two fire cars.

Kendal Fire Station manager Brian Steadman described the blaze as 'severe'.

Crews remained at the scene well into the afternoon, damping down the building.

Police closed Milnthorpe Road between Glebe Road and Kirkland for public safety after glass fell from the three-storey property.

The first floor of the building was damaged by smoke and flames, with other floors affected by smoke.

Smoke also caused damage to two adjoining buildings.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.

Speaking to the Gazette at the scene, Mr Steadman said: "Any compartment fire is serious and has the potential to endanger life.

"We would ask everybody to take care and ensure they have a smoke alarm that has been tested."

To arrange a free home fire safety visit, telephone Kendal Fire Station on 01539-713642.