Firefighters are highlighting the importance of smoke alarms after an elderly couple escaped unharmed from a serious fire in their Rhydymwyn home.

Two crews from Deeside and a crew from Buckley were called to the split level bungalow on Vicarage Road, Rhydamwyn after being notified by the occupier of a fire in the property. He had been alerted by the sound of the smoke alarm and found the utility and kitchen area to be heavily involved in fire. He and his wife then both exited the property and called 999.

Firefighters used two main jets, two hose reels and eight sets of breathing apparatus to tackle the fire, which caused severe fire damage to the kitchen, utility and roof space and smoke damage throughout the property.

The cause of the fire is under investigation but is thought to be accidental.

Both casualties were checked over at the scene by paramedics.

Ian Williams, Head of Response for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "This incident highlights the potentially life saving properties of smoke alarms - the early warning provided by the alarm allowed this couple to escape unharmed and contact the fire and rescue service as quickly as possible.

"The couple followed our advice to the letter by exiting the property as quickly as possible and calling 999 - always get out, stay out and call the fire and rescue service out. As well as protecting their own safety, by informing us of the fire quickly they helped us to minimize the fire damage to one area of the house.

"North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offer free home fire safety checks for all residents in North Wales. During a check, a member of staff will visit your home, give fire safety hints and tips, and if necessary, fit new smoke alarms in your home.

"To register, please call North Wales Fire and Rescue Service's free 24 hour hotline on 0800 169 1234 or visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk or text 88365, prefixing the message with the word HFSC."