29 November 2010 - Fatal fire, Edinburgh
An elderly man, believed to be in his 70s, has died in a house fire in Edinburgh. Fire crews were alerted to a blaze just after 2am this morning (29 November) at Hutchison Cottages in the Slateford area of the city.
Two fire appliances from Sighthill attended and found the living room of the property on fire. A man was found dead inside the ground floor flat.
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire. Fire investigation officers are now at the scene with Lothian and Borders Police to investigate and establish the cause of the fire.
It is believed neighbours became aware of the smell of smoke and discovered the fire.
A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said: “Every fire fatality is a tragedy. We would urge homeowners to ensure that they have a working smoke detector in their house.
“If you would like help or advice about fire safety and live in our area you can arrange a free home safety visit by calling 0800 169 0320. Firefighters will come to your home and fit a free smoke alarm and give you important advice about making an escape plan and protecting your family from the risk of fire.”
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Enquiries: Ruth MacLeod, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service, Tel: 0131 228 2401
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