FIREFIGHTERS emphasised the need for working smoke alarms in homes.

It came as a dishwasher was destroyed when it caught fire at a property in Chorley.

Firefighters were called to Bolton Road to put out the blaze, which happened at around 12.30am yesterday.

Watch manager Mark Greenwood said the residents of the terraced house had evacuated by the time fire engines arrived.

He said: “They managed to get out due to them having one of our home fire safety checks last year.

“The fire alarm had activated and they were alerted to the fire.

“It just shows how they are saving lives.”

The rest of the house was damaged by smoke.

For a free check, visit www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/fire-safety-check