An investigation into the cause of a house fire is underway after two women were rescued by firefighters from a property in Caernarfon.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service was called to the incident on North Penrallt, Caernarfon at 04.30hrs.

Two Crews from Caernarfon and one from Llanberis attended the incident..

Two women aged 27 and 65 were alerted to the fire by a smoke detector and then rescued by fire crews from the first floor of the property.

Firefighters using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets entered the house and located one occupant in a bedroom, the other occupant was rescued by firefighters from the bathroom window using a ladder.

Both occupants were then taken to hospital by ambulance.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and there are no further details at present.

Geraint Hughes from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: "The occupants were extremely fortunate that the smoke alarm alerted them to the fire.

"Fire control operators were able to provide advice and reassurance on the phone whilst firefighters attended and located the occupants.

"The incident demonstrates how important it is to ensure you have a working smoke alarm in your property - it could mean the difference between life and death."

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offers free home fire safety checks, where a member of the Service will visit your home, give fire safety hints and tips, help you to formulate a fire escape plan and fit new alarms - all free of charge.

To register for a free home fire safety check, call the free 24 hour hotline on 0800 169 1234, e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk or visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk