FIVE people who fled from the window of a burning house have been taken to hospital.

The dramatic incident took place at 4.47am at a property on the B3227, Hillcommon.

The road has been closed while emergency services responded to the incident - but the road has now reopened.

The cause of the fire in under investigation.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said: "Fire control took an emergency call reporting there was a domestic property fire with a family still inside and unable to get out. One fire engine from Wiveliscombe, one from Taunton and one from Wellington were immediately sent.

"On arrival crews confirmed that the family had all managed to evacuate from a first floor window before we arrived. On arrival the officer in charge requested further assistance, so another fire engine from Taunton and Wellington were sent.

"This property was a two storey semi detached and it was 100 per cent damage by smoke. There was also 10 per cent smoke damage to the neighbouring property.

"The fire was extinguished using eight breathing apparatus, three hose reel jets, a positive pressure fan and a thermal image camera.

"All five occupants of the property have been taken to hospital as a precaution. The cause of the fire is under investigation."