A FAMILY had a lucky escape after a fierce blaze destroyed a caravan and spread to their home.

Exploding canisters alerted neighbours to the fire in Winnards Close, West Parley, at 9.20pm on Wednesday.

Many alerted Dorset Fire and Rescue before running into the street to check on the residents.

The family of four managed to get out of the house and escape injury despite being shaken by their ordeal.

“I heard a loud noise which sounded like someone was trying to break into the house but when I looked outside I saw the flames” said neighbour James Bradshaw.

“The whole caravan was ablaze very quickly and it spread to the property. There were cylinders exploding throughout the fire.

“The fire brigade were here for a couple of hours and managed to bring it under control quickly.”

Another neighbour, who does not wish to be named, added: “I thought it was fireworks at first but then I realised it was a big fire. I’m just glad everyone is safe.”

The bungalow suffered extensive damage and has a gaping hole in the roof and severe fire and smoke damage.

Flames also spread to a neighbouring property, causing damage to the roof, and also damaged a car.

The distraught family was too upset to talk about the incident.

Fire crews from Redhill Park, Springbourne, Westbourne and Christchurch used eight sets of breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and a man line to bring the fire under control.

The Red Cross Fire Emergency Support vehicle was also on the scene to assist residents.

District Commander Stu Jeneson said the outcome could have been a lot worse.

“The room most badly affected was a bedroom so if the fire had been later in the evening or overnight it could have been very serious” he added.

He also urged members of the public not to park caravans and other vehicles too close to their homes.

“People should be aware of anything which could spread to their homes if there was a fire.

“This includes caravans, cars and even vegetation. The flames spread through the eaves into the roof, which is difficult to deal with.”

The cause is believed to be an electrical fault in the caravan.