Firefighters praised after saving three people from Cookstown blaze

By Rebecca Black & David Hunter

Firefighters have been commended after rescuing three people from a house fire in Cookstown, Co.Tyrone.

A man and a woman, both aged in their 60s, are in a critical condition in hospital.

Police believe the blaze in Millburn Avenue was started deliberately at around 7.15 this morning and say they're not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 

A man aged in his 30s was also rescued and is being treated for smoke inhilation.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said it received a call about the incident at 7.17am.

"All three occupants were treated at the scene by firefighters for smoke inhalation and were taken to hospital by ambulance," a NIFRS spokeswoman said.

"The on-call firefighters, who attended this incident, are to be commended for their swift response and actions in rescuing the three casualties from the fire and providing first aid at the scene.

"A working smoke alarm alerted one of the occupants to the fire and they raised the alarm.

"We would like to remind everyone of the importance of having a working smoke alarm and to test it once a week to ensure it is working."

The cause of the fire is under investigation.