A MAN, woman and baby escaped unharmed when an unattended chip pan caught light in their Wimborne home.

Firefighters were called just after 9pm on Friday to Quarterjack Mews.

Crews wearing breathing apparatus put out the fire, which a Dorset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the occupants tried to put out with a tea towel.

Police attended and closed East Street while the incident was dealt with.

The spokesman said advice was always to get out, call the fire service and stay out.

Firefighters were due to revisit the area to hand out safety tips.