HARTLEPOOL MAIL (UK) 25 September 09 Tortoise is unhurt in blaze

A tortoise had a lucky escape after its tank caught following an electrical fault.

Crews from Stranton Fire Station were called to the house in Skelton Street, in the West View area of Hartlepool, following reports of a house fire.

When they arrived they discovered a vivarium, which housed the pet tortoise, had burst into flames, causing smoke and heat damage to the living room.

The tank, which was full of wood chippings, was about 5ft wide and 2ft high. It was taken outside and extinguished by fire crews.

Watch manager Ged Suggitt said: "There was a fire in the vivarium which houses the tortoise.

"I believe it was an electrical problem which led to it overheating and setting on fire but the tortoise is fine. There was heat and smoke damage to the property.

"This property did not have smoke alarms fitted and if it had done then the occupants would have been alerted to the presence of smoke a lot sooner."

There was one male in the house at the time of the incident, which happened at around 7.45am on Friday.

To arrange a free home fire safety check, call (01429) 874063.
Tortoise is unhurt in blaze

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