NEIGHBOURS have spoken of the moment firefighters pulled a man from a blazing flat after he tried to stop a chip pan fire.
Emergency services rushed to the first floor flat on Spring Street, Hull, after an unattended chip pan set fire to the property on Wednesday last night.
The man, who has not been identified, tried to carry the pan down the stairs, which caused burning fat to set a carpet on fire.
This then blocked the escape route and the man found he was trapped at the back of the Mad Mo Multemedia shop below his flat.
Owner Mohammed Younus, 50, said: "I was in at the time and made sure the fire crews could get to the man.
"Ambulances turned up and paramedics took him to hospital, I'm glad he wasn't seriously injured in the blaze."
Three fire engines attended and two fire-fighters in breathing apparatus entered the flat to fight the flames while the man was rescued.
Community Safety Manager Richard Mason from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service said: "The man was rescued by a fire-fighter from the first floor window.
"He had minor burns to his hand and was treated at the scene by paramedics for smoke inhalation. If a chip pan catches fire you should get out, stay out and dial 999."
One neighbour, who saw the drama unfold from his flat window, said: "I got my phone out to video what was happening because there were a lot of flashing lights.
"I couldn't see any flames or smoke but knew somebody had been taken to hospital and I'm glad the man is now recovering."
Mr Mason said: "Thankfully the man suffered minor injuries but this incident could have been much worse.
"It highlights the dangers of using chip pans. We recommend people do not use them at all and replace them with deep fat fryers."
In the last twelve months there have been 55 chip pan fires in the Humberside area and 22 of those have happened in Hull.
"There is real concern that residents are still using chip pans, they can very quickly over heat and catch fire," he said.
"Cooking related fires can have devastating effects yet can so easily be avoided. I urge people to never leave cooking unattended.
"Having working smoke alarms fitted in your home is essential to keep your household safer from fire.
"If a fire breaks out they will alert you, giving you precious time to escape.
"I urge residents to ensure they have smoke alarms fitted on each level and test them weekly."
Smoke alarms can be bought from DIY stores and major supermarkets - they are inexpensive and easy to fit. They should be checked they are working on a weekly basis.
