A FAMILY of five were evacuated from their Astley Bridge home this morning after a microwave caught fire.

A man, a woman and three children were in bed upstairs at a house in Pinewood Close when their smoke alarm sounded.

Fire crews tackled the blazing microwave, removing it from the house before putting the fire out, at about 7.30am.

The blaze caused smoke damage to the house, although the fire did not spread.

Fire crews made sure the house had been thoroughly venthilated and made safe before they left.

None of the family were hurt although they were left shocked by the incident.

A fire service spokesman said: “This highlights the importance of working smoke alarms.

“This family were shocked but were able to get out unharmed because the alarm had sounded.

“Their lives could have been in danger if they had stayed in the house much longer without the fire being addressed.”

For a free home safety check and to have smoke alarms fitted call 0800 555815.