A FIRE chief is warning Bury householders to be vigilant in the wake of three blaze tragedies to hit the town in recent weeks.

Since April, three people have died following house fires in the town. Now Bob Bonner, divisional officer with Greater Manchester Fire Service's "C" division which includes Bury, is anxious to reinforce simple but vital tips.

He stresses everyone should take care with smoking materials, like cigarettes.

"These should be safely disposed of. Ashtrays should be emptied and matches and lighters kept away from children," he said.

The fire officer says he is also concerned about kitchen fires.

"Most of the injuries we've had recently have involved cooker fires," he added.

"Very often people might start cooking food around midnight when they are not thinking straight and then end up nodding off.

"That might result in them getting injured and having to spend two or three days in hospital."

Mr Bonner says householders should not attempt to fight fires but instead should shut the door to prevent the blaze from spreading before fleeing the property and raising the alarm.

Mr Bonner said fires involve everyday materials and he is anxious householders should always take care.

The recent fire tragedies in Bury are:

Wheelchair-bound Mary Noble (65), was found dead in her Deal Street home in April.

Eighteen-year-old Kelvin Fenna who died following a fire in his bedroom at Collen Crescent, Bury, two weeks ago.

Mrs Patricia Watson (51), who was dragged from her burning home in Rydal Close, Bury, last Friday and died later in hospital. See story p2.

Thanks to successful fund-raising throughout Greater Manchester, local pensioners are being offered free smoke alarms. The devices, which can be fitted by firemen, play a key role in giving an early warning of danger. Any pensioner who would like to an alarm can telephone Bury fire station on 764 2223 or Whitefield station on 766 2828.

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