Elderly couple rescued from Vic house fire
An elderly couple and their dog have been rescued from their burning home in Melbourne's inner east.
Around 29 firefighters tackled the blaze which broke out at a property in Hunter Street, Richmond, at around 4pm.
Two policemen and an off-duty fireman have been praised for their heroic efforts in saving the couple and their dog, Tiger, from the blaze.
JUST IN: Two elderly residents rescued as a fire engulfs a house in Richmond. More details to come. #7NewsMelb pic.twitter.com/RKjmHoFJVb
— 7NewsMelbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) August 27, 2014
The officers were driving along Bridge Road when they noticed huge plumes of smoke billowing from the roof.
They discovered the couple, who are both in their eighties, in the backyard, unable to escape because of the flames.
The officers escorted the couple to the front of the house and away from the danger.
One of the officers ran back to save Tiger.
The pair have been treated for smoke inhalation.
CHOPPERCAM: Massive blaze engulfs #Richmond home. Two people evacuated. Emergency crews on scene. Details #7NewsMelb pic.twitter.com/dg4cMTjtLu
— 7NewsMelbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) August 27, 2014
The MFB said a neighbour who attempted to fight the blaze was injured and required hospital treatment.
Earlier, a community watch and act alert was issued for the area due to smoke.
It is believed the property did not have a working smoke alarm.
The cause of the blaze is not yet known, and will be investigated.
