Four people were assessed by paramedics following two separate fire incidents in the early hours of this morning.

One person was taken to hospital for further observations after a fire broke out in the kitchen of a block of flats at around 3am.

The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service said a fire appliance from Douglas was initially mobilised by the Emergency Services Joint Control Room after a smoke detector was activated.

On arrival, the incident commander identified smoke within the block and called for two additional fire appliances and the duty officer.

A breathing apparatus crew was deployed to tackle the kitchen fire using a high-pressure hose reel.

Firefighters removed one person from the property, while three people were assessed for possible smoke inhalation by the Isle of Man Ambulance Service.

One of those assessed was taken to hospital for further observations.

Crews used a positive pressure fan to clear smoke from the property and gas detectors to monitor conditions before residents were allowed to return.

Firefighters remained at the scene for approximately one hour and 45 minutes.

The incident came less than two hours after another call-out in Douglas at around 1.45am.

Two fire appliances and the duty officer were mobilised to reports of a structure fire, which was subsequently found to have been caused by burnt food.

A positive pressure fan was again used to clear smoke from the property.

The Fire and Rescue Service has reminded households to keep cooking hobs clear of combustible materials.

Station Officer Quayle said storing items not designed for use with a hob on or near one poses a fire risk.

The incidents come after a busy period for the island's fire and rescue service and other emergency services, which have responded to a number of incidents in recent days, including a flat fire in Anagh Coar estate and two vehicle fires.