Firefighters were deployed to a property in Harwell Village, near Didcot, just after 8.20pm. Upon arrival, the crew witnessed thick smoke coming from the home. The occupiers were outside, having escaped the fire that started in their kitchen. Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and extinguished the fire in the electric board and switchgear. The couple were in the kitchen when the blaze began and were able to act quickly and raise the alarm. They were both treated for smoke inhalation by paramedics at the scene. Incident commander Jon Walker commented: The couple were fortunate to be near the seat of the fire when it started and could act quickly, however, we urge people not to attempt to tackle fires and you should leave the property and raise the alarm immediately.