Firefighters are warning people to be careful after an open fire ignited a sofa at an elderly woman's house today.

The incident happened at 3.30pm at a semi-detached property in Forelands Square.

The homeowner, thought to be in her 70s, went to get water to try and tackle the blaze but by the time she returned the fire was already well developed.

Two fire engines from Deal and one from Eastry attended the scene.

Firefighters wore breathing apparatus and rescued the woman.

She was given oxygen therapy by the firefighters before being assessed by paramedics and taken to hospital.

The fire was extinguished using two hose reels. Fire crews said it was unlikely that the woman will be able to return to her home before Christmas due to the damage to the ground floor.

Deal watch manager Malcolm Cowie said: "This incident highlights how vital it is to have working smoke alarms in your home and the importance of not trying to tackle the fire yourself."

'This incident highlights how vital it is to have working smoke alarms in your home' - Watch manager, Malcolm Cowie

"If you have an open fire, always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks and hot embers and make sure that the embers are properly out before you go out or go to bed.

"Keep all furniture and items that could catch alight at least three feet away from your fire."

Kent Fire & Rescue has said it is unlikely that the woman will be able to return home before Christmas due to the damage on the ground floor.

Mr Cowie continued: "Particularly at this time of year I would encourage people to look out for older friends, neighbours and relatives as they are often more likely to feel the cold and be more reliant on portable heaters and open fires.

For those who are hard of hearing or partially sighted can seek help and advice on specialist alarms by calling: 0800 9237000.