FIREFIGHTERS are urging peopleto check their smoke alarms have batteries after a man was taken to hospital following a flat fire.
He had left a chip pan on and fallen asleep at his home in Woodcock Close, Eston, near Middlesbrough, late on Saturday.
The kitchen was destroyed, and the rest of the property was severely damaged by smoke.
Grangetown Station Officer Trevor Moody said: "He was a very lucky man, he woke up in time.
"We discovered that there was a fire alarm in the property, but it had no batteries.
"Just for the sake of a few pounds, people are risking their lives. The message just isn't getting out to people about how important it is that smoke alarms should be in good working order."
Anyone wanting the brigade to fit alarms can call (0845) 1202444.
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