FIRE crews were scrambled after burning incense set fire to a flat in The Haulgh.

The flat in Bradford Street was badly damaged in the blaze which broke out at around 12.15pm, yesterday.

It is believed that the incense cone burner had fallen onto the floor while unattended, setting fire to the property’s carpet before spreading.

All the occupants of the block of flats managed to escape unharmed after being alerted by the building’s fire alarms.

However the door to the burning flat was locked, forcing fire crews to send in units for a potential rescue. But fortunately they found the flat empty.

Once the area had been made safe fire crews handed over control of the situation to a representative of the building’s management.

Following the fire Bolton Fire station watch manager Karsten Boyle sought to remind residents of the importance of having working smoke alarms and to take care when using incense.

He said: “Incense burners should be placed on a suitable, flat surface and care should be taken when using them.”