A Brighton scaffolder rescued the family next door when a fire broke out in their home in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday 10 September).
Wade Eason was woken by the screams coming from his terrified neighbours.
In his pyjamas he fetched a ladder and helped a two-year-old and a three-year-old and an adult to safety.
Moments later fire crews from Preston Circus and Roedean reached the scene in Bexhill Road, Woodingdean. The alarm was raised just after 2am.
Two other adults were rescued by fire crews and given oxygen as they had been breathing in smoke.
Five people in all were taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Kemp Town for treatment.
Sussex Police started an investigation in to the fire which is being treated as suspicious.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “The fire was located in the kitchen and crews used four breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and a hydrant to extinguish the flames.
“Firefighters rescued one adult by ladder and led another adult to safety. Oxygen therapy was administered to the two occupants by crews at the scene.
“Firefighters also rescued one dog, three cats and a hamster from the property.
“One adult and two children were rescued by a neighbour, using a ladder, prior to the arrival of the fire service.”
