A CAMPAIGN has been launched to encourage householders to draw up a plan for escaping a house fire.

The campaign urges people to develop a fire action plan so that they are prepared in the event of a house blaze.

Welcoming the campaign, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade chief fire officer George Herbert said: "Many deaths and injuries from house fires could be prevented by taking some basic precautions.

"Making a fire action plan with your family and ensuring everyone knows what to do in the event of a house fire could give you the extra few minutes needed to get out safely."