Washing machine starts house fire

The fire service has warned householders not to leave their washing machines running overnight or unattended following a house fire this morning in Middletown.

Crews from Welshpool were called out at 1am to the fire which early investigations show was probably caused by a washing machine.

It comes in the same 24 hours that Whirlpool issued a recall for more than 514,000 Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines. It is not known if that brand was at fault this morning.

The first floor of the property was severely affected by smoke and heat with four Breathing Apparatus and one Hose Reel Jet used in the incident. Crews left the scene at 3.18am.

Deputy Head of Community Safety for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Neil Evans said: “We want to ensure that people are well informed of the risks posed in their homes and how they can protect themselves and their families.

“Running a washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher overnight or while you are out is a fire risk because of their high wattage, friction and motors.

“A working smoke alarm in the event something does go wrong can be a lifesaver. We recommend that you have a working smoke alarm in your home and that you test your smoke alarm regularly, ideally once a week.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service can visit your home and provide free Home Safety advice and smoke alarms.

Please contact them on 0800 169 1234 for more information and to arrange a visit.

You can also go to www.mawwfire.gov.uk and follow them on social media for safety advice on how to stay safe over the Christmas period.