HERO COPS SAVE TWO FROM HOUSE FIRE

TWO Alice Springs police officers are being hailed as heroes after walking into a burning house to save the men sleeping inside.

Police allege the fire was deliberately lit and have charged a woman, 61, with arson and recklessly endangering life.

Detective Sergeant Leith Phillips from the Southern Investigations Division said the two unidentified officers were at the Charles Creek Camp about 8pm on Friday night when they noticed the house was alight.

‘‘Fire was coming from the roof and thick smoke was pouring out of the lounge area of the dwelling,’’ Detective Sergeant Phillips said.

‘‘The officers went into the house to check to check for occupants and found two people inside.’’

Both men were found to be in a state of confusion due to the thick smoke.

‘‘[ The officers] guided them out to the safety of the backyard,’’ Detective Sergeant Phillips said.

‘‘ There is no doubt the quick action of the officers has saved them from serious harm.’’

The brick house was seriously damaged by the blaze. Its corrugated iron roof collapsed and belongings inside were destroyed.

Police said the 61-year-old woman had been refused bail and would appear in Alice Springs Magistrates Court on Monday.

It is the second serious incident at the camp in recent months. A 34-year-old mother was allegedly stabbed to death by her partner there in August.