TWO schoolboys are set to back a national safety campaign after rescuing an elderly woman from her burning house. The Comet reported that Adam Smith and Mark Jeffery s swift actions potentially saved the Knebworth pensioner s life when a toaster started t

TWO schoolboys are set to back a national safety campaign after rescuing an elderly woman from her burning house.

The Comet reported that Adam Smith and Mark Jeffery's swift actions potentially saved the Knebworth pensioner's life when a toaster started the kitchen blaze.

The story caught the eye of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM), which had been looking for case studies for Child Safety Week in June.

An ODPM spokesman said: "We often work with people who have experienced a fire in their home.

"Their support is very important to us urging the public to take action to prevent a fire."

He added: "This story was really strong in terms of getting this message across."

The pair had been going to the park on December 21 last year when they heard a fire alarm and saw the flames in Stockens Dell, so went for help.

The woman was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation, but later released.

The boys and their mothers Mandy and Sally could now share their experiences in interviews with national magazines, radio or TV.

Adam's mother Mandy said: "We feel it's a good cause and we will do anything we can to help.

"It's great and Adam and Mark are very enthusiastic about it.

"They look forward to offering their help in any way they can."

A Hertfordshire County Council spokesman said: "We're really pleased that the ODPM may be using Adam and Mark for their fire safety campaigns."

A Crucial Crews course the young heroes attended last year taught them a lot as they showed very responsible behaviour in the crisis, she added.

Children learn on the course how to stay safe in different dangerous situations.

The ODPM have published a free Fire Prevention Handbook.

To order it call 08456 087 087 or see it at www.fireskills.gov.uk