FIREFIGHTERS issued a safety warning today after youngsters torched an empty house for the fourth time in three days.

The latest blaze occurred at the property in Grey Street, Burnley, at 7.30pm last night when the staircase was set alight.

Firefighters quickly dealt with the fire which destroyed much of the stair area and issued smoke alarms to neighbouring homes.

Burnley station officer Steve Cope warned: "We would appeal to neighbours and parents to ensure youngsters do not go into empty houses.

"The property is now a very real danger and someone could be easily trapped or injured."

He added that police had been informed and action being taken to fully secure the property which was only recently vacated.

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