CROFT house dwellers have been urged not to leave open peat or coal fire unattended after a man lost all his possession in a blaze.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also said people living in the dwellings should fit working smoke alarms following the blaze which destroyed lorry driver Donald Macleod's home on Lewis.
A spokesman called on householders to "take all reasonable precautions in relation to open fires."
He added: "Don't leave them unattended for long periods or leave items too close to a fire.
"Simple steps like this can help keep people safer.
"Working smoke alarms have saved lives and are absolutely essential items for every household."
Mr Macleod, who lives in the crofting village of Arnol, was out when the fire took hold at about 9.20pm on Thursday.
The two storey detached house was well alight when fire crews from Shawbost, Stornoway, and Great Bernera arrived.
Firefighters fought the flames for two hours and donned breathing sets in the searing heat and smoke, but managed to save the roof.
One resident said Mr Macleod had "lost everything expect the clothes he was wearing.
"He wasn't at home when it happened. I think he was out visiting."
Police cordoned off the single track road when the blaze was at its height.
It is believed the fire started in the living room or adjacent kitchen.
The interior has been completely completely wrecked and smoke though fire-fighters were able to save the roof.
A butane Calor gas cylinder is believed to have been taken out of the property.
An investigation has been launched into the cause.
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