FIREFIGHTERS have renewed their warning about candles and the importance of smoke alarms after a man had a lucky escape from a bedroom fire.

Gary Maddon, of Lamlash Road, Shadsworth, woke in the early hours of today to find his bedroom smoke-logged.

The blaze had started after a nightlight candle had burnt through a stereo.

Mr Maddon got some water and had put out the fire by the time firefighters arrived.

Station Officer Kevin Gibson, of Blackburn, said: "This lad was very lucky he woke up as he could easily have perished in there.

"The incident highlights the dangers of candles and how important it is not to leave them burning while you fall asleep.

"Also there were no smoke alarms in this house, which again are important in alerting people to fires before it it too late. This lad was very lucky to escape."

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