House destroyed by blaze

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House destroyed by blaze 21/3/14

A house on Lewis has been destroyed by flames.

The two storey detached property at Arnol was well alight when fire crews from Shawbost, Stornoway and Great Bernera arrived on the scene.

Fireman fought the flames for two hours after the alarm was raised at 9.20pm on Thursday night.

Firefighters in breathing apparatus used two main jets and two hosereel jets to extinguish the fire.

No-one was in the property at the time.

Firefighters were able to save the roof.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging all residents to sign up for a free Home Fire Safety Visit and Join Scotland's Fight Against Fire by ensuring they have a working smoke alarm.

Temporary Group Manager Ian MacLeod said: "The evidence is clear – working smoke alarms have saved lives and are absolutely essential items for every household.

“It is widely acknowledged that working smoke detectors raise the alarm very quickly, meaning there is less chance of fire causing serious injury to people and damage to property.

“More homes than ever are now protected by these life-saving devices and that has led to a noticeable reduction in the severity of the house fires we are called to tackle. By quickly alerting people to the presence of fire, working smoke alarms give residents the time they need to get out and call us out.

"We would also urge people that despite the improving weather that householders take all reasonable precautions in relation to open fires. Don't leave them unattended for long periods or leave items too close to a fire. Simple steps like this can help keep people safer."