Two Gardaí have been hailed as heroes after forcing their way into a burning building and saving two people’s lives.

Dún Laoghaire Gardaí Dean Gahan and Steven Carton took the action after arriving at the burning building in Monkstown yesterday afternoon.

When they arrived, they saw flames and thick smoke coming from the house in the De Vesci Terrace area.

The aftermath of the fire at a home in Monkstown. Image: An Garda Síochana.

When they became aware there was a person trapped in the basement, they forced open the hall door to enter the burning building and brought a young woman to safety.

They then went back in to search for others inside and found a man in his 70s at the back of the property and also took him to safety.

On The Pat Kenny Show this morning, Garda Steven Carton said the fire was well developed when they arrived on the scene.

“We gained entry into the house, go the female, out, she made us aware that there was an elderly man still in.

“So, I suppose we went back inside; we gained entry to a couple of doors that were down below and then, there was actually a locked door down the back so we gained entry into that and found a male who was actually quite covered in soot or smoke.”

Meanwhile, Garda Dean Gahan was asked if they had gas masks or any equipment for tackling fires.

“We don’t have any of that kind of stuff. We arrived at the scene and the fire was going so. We were made aware by lads at the station that there was somebody still in the house, so we kind of just had to act there and then.

“We went in and thankfully got the two people out.”

Hero Gardaí Dean Gahan (left) and Steven Carton (right). Image: An Garda Síochána.

The man was taken to St Vincent's University Hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and is now expected to make a full recovery.

Gardaí also evacuated people from two homes adjoining the burning building and from a mews property nearby.

“It is extremely fortunate that no one was seriously injured or lost their life in this fire,” said Chief Superintendent Matthew Nyland.

“I have no doubt that this is primarily a result of the quick thinking and actions of all first responders, particularly Garda Dean Gahan and Garda Steven Carton.

“Gardaí Gahan and Carton showed immense bravery entering a very dangerous situation and putting fears for their own personal safety aside to assist others.

“Yet, we know that this is just one fitting example of the kind of courage exhibited every day by the dedicated members of An Garda Síochána working nationwide to keep people safe. We are very proud of Garda Gahan and Garda Carton.”

Three Dublin fire Brigade units attended the scene and brought the fire under control.

While no injuries have been reported, there is extensive structural damage to the building.

Investigators currently believe the fire was accidental and foul play is not suspected at this time.