A MALVERN family was forced to flee an inferno in their house, which claimed the life of three pets.
Up to 20 firefighters and officers battled to control the severe basement blaze in Belmont Road, yesterday evening.
A mother and child were taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
Three cats died as up to eight firefighters fought through the smoke in the end-terraced house.
Alec Mackie, spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade said it was a "severe fire," which began in the basement of the house.
"A mother and three children were in the house. They did the right thing by getting out and waiting in safety for fire crews to arrive," he said.
"There were electrical explosions in the basement. The electricity board was brought in to isolate the supply.
Officers are investigating the scene this morning.
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