TWO people were treated for smoke inhalation after a blaze at a Poole flat early this morning.

Unattended candles have been blamed for the fire, which was reported to Dorset Fire and Rescue just after 5am.

Crews from Westbourne and Poole attended the ground floor flat in Sea View Road and used four sets of breathing apparatus and two hose reel jets to tackle the fire.

Two occupants, one male and one female, were treated by Dorset Fire and Rescue Service at the scene.  Oxygen therapy was given and one person was taken to hospital by ambulance.

Fire crews carried out salvage efforts to remove personal belongings from the affected flat, one of four in a detached property.  Breathing apparatus was discontinued at approx 0620hrs and damping down using hose reels took place.

A specialist support unit from Poole Fire Station, which carries mechanical fans, also attended to assist with ventilation of the property.   Red Cross volunteers based at Springbourne Fire Station were also on scene to provide support and assistance to residents.

A Fire Investigation Officer confirmed the cause of the fire was unattended candles and members of the public have bee urged to take care when using candles.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service will be returning to the scene to offer residents the opportunity to have a home fire safety check and offer advice and reassurance following this fire.  

The incident was over by 5.42am.