With all his knowledge of chimneys and fireplaces, Santa is definitely a good man to have around in a fire-related emergency.

Luckily for one New South Wales resident, the big man was on hand to help when a house fire broke out on Saturday.

According to ITV local fireman, including one in costume, from the town of Rutherford, were handing out sweets on their annual Christmas drive when they smelled smoke coming from a nearby building.

They sprung into action, with festively-dressed Nick Carey providing first aid to a man who had been found unconscious in the house.

The man is recovering and in a stable condition in a local hospital.