Blaze drama

Firefighters at Cumbernauld Fire Station were called to Millcroft Road at around 5pm on Thursday, by which time the fire was already well established.

Three fire crews arrived on the scene - two from Cumbernauld and a third from Coatbridge providing backup. Fortunately the houses were vacant and there were no injuriesd to firefighters or the public.

Watch Commander Stephen Lannigan of Cumbernauld Fire Station said: “We would like to take this opportunity to remind all members of the public that it is vitally important to have a functioning smoke alarm in your home. Our firefighters will supply one free of charge as part of a fire safety inspection which can be arranged by calling Cumbernauld Fire Station on 01236 729797.”

The properties are owned by Sanctuary Cumbernauld. Director Peter Martin said: “A fire broke out in one of our property’s in Millcroft Road yesterday, causing damage to it and the houses on either side.

“Three houses have been affected in total. None of the three are occupied.

“We are thankful no-one was injured in the fire, which began at about 5pm.

“Neighbours living next to the affected properties were asked to leave their homes while fire-fighters made the area safe. The police allowed those tenants to return to their houses as soon as it was safe to do so.

“Strathclyde Fire and Rescue are currently investigating the cause of the blaze. We will do all we can to make the three houses habitable again.”