A FIRE in a waste paper bin led to the elderly residents of a sheltered housing complex being evacuated in the early hours.

The incident happened at 2.23am yesterday in a flat at Waverley Court, Douglas.

The fire was caused by a discarded cigarette that had set fire to the contents of the bin and activated the fire alarm system leading to a full evacuation.

The fire had been extinguished by the resident of the flat prior to the arrival of firefighters from Douglas but crews remained in attendance to clear the smoke and assist staff resetting the fire alarm system.

The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service has issued the following advice to smokers:

"Use a proper ashtray. Make sure the ashtray is heavy, can't tip over easily and is made of a material that won't burn.

"Never tap your ash into a wastepaper basket, only an ashtray. Make sure it can't be easily knocked over and don't let ash build up.

"Take extra care if you smoke when you're drowsy, taking prescription drugs, or if you have been drinking.

"It's too easy to fall asleep and not notice that a cigarette is still burning.

"Don't light up if you need to lie down. Despite the risk of falling asleep or setting the bed on fire, people are still smoking in bed."