A Senior Fire Safety Officer has warned that ignoring the sound of a smoke alarm means that lives are put at risk.

Firefighters from Mold were called to an incident at a flat onDenbigh Road, Mold at 15.58hrs on 25 June after cooking had been left unattended.

The property was heavily smoke logged and a man in his 30s was led to safety.

Gary Brandrick, Senior Fire Safety Manager at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: "Smoke alarms had been sounding at this property for over 20 minutes yet no-one called the fire and rescue service and no-one evacuated the building which comprised a number of flats.

"Instead, residents complained about the alarm - it was only by chance that the engineer sent out to attend to the alarm was a previous fire and rescue service fire safety practitioner so he immediately called the fire and rescue service.

"The flat occupant was asleep at the time and had not heard the alarm. Yet neighbours who had head the alarm did not think to call for help. Luckily fire fighters were eventually alerted - but this incident could so easily have led to tragedy.

"I would urge the public never to ignore a sounding smoke alarm - time and time again we have seen first hand how smoke alarms can save lives. So look out for your neighbours in the same way that they will hopefully look out for you - you never know one day it may be your life depending on a smoke alarm.

"Smoke alarms give you the vital early warning sign which allows you and your family to escape safely from a fire - this incident demonstrates just how important they are.

"North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offers free home fire safety checks for all residents inNorth Wales.

"During a check, a member of the Service will come to your home, give fire safety hints and tips, help you to formulate a fire escape plan, and if necessary, fit new smoke alarms in your home.

"To register, please call 0800 169 1234, visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk or e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk. A member of the service will then contact you to arrange a convenient time to visit your home."