That is the stated belief of Tayside Fire and Rescue, after investigating the devastating blaze at West Newlandhead, about three miles north of Wellbank in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The burnt out remains of the farmhouse at West Newlandhead.
Firefighters were called out at about 2 a.m., but the two-storey farmhouse was well alight by then, and they could do little but try to contain the blaze. They used water from a fire hydrant, and from a nearby burn.
A 12-year-old boy sustained burns to his legs in the blaze, and was rushed to Ninewells Hospital. However, we understand that his injuries are responding to treatment.
A spokesman said the fire highlighted the need for properly operated fire alarms. He continued: "The family were awoken by their smoke detector. The smoke alarm operated and proved the value of having a smoke detector to give early warning.
"It is a relatively inexpensive gadget that helps to save lives and gives vital time in the event of a fire."
He concluded: "WIthout the smoke alarm there could have been fatalities. It could have been much worse."
