A discarded cigarette has been blamed for a fire at a house in Dunfermline early this morning.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Operations Control Thornton received the call at 3.33am to a small fire in a bedroom at Henryson Road after the owner was alerted by his smoke alarm.
Crews from Dunfermline found the fire had been put out before they arrived on scene.
A man was assessed at the scene by paramedics but did not require any treatment.
An SFRS spokesperson said: “Any fire in someone’s home must always bring home the importance of working together to prevent fires and raise awareness of how to be safer from the risk of fire in the home.
“Discarded smoking materials are a common cause of house fires it only takes a moment of carelessness to cause a fire that could cost someone their home, their possessions, or even their life.
“It is vital that smokers make sure they have fully extinguished cigarettes and matches immediately after use and, once lit, they should never be left unattended.
“A cigarette end can smoulder for hours before eventually starting a fire that can quickly spread flames, heat and toxic smoke throughout a property, so it’s essential that these are always properly put out.
“People should never smoke while they are in bed and anyone who is feeling tired shouldn’t smoke in a chair either it’s far too easy to nod off and start a potentially devastating fire.
“This incident also shows why every home needs to be protected by working smoke alarms. When fires happen these devices are life-savers.
“Smoke alarms give you that vital early warning should a fire start. We provide free home fire safety visits and fit smoke alarms where required.”
Free home fire safety visits with local firefighters can be arranged by by calling 0800 0731 999 or visit www.firescotland.gov.uk.