Fatal flat fire

Firefighters were called to a flat fire in Baxter Avenue, Southend at 11:42am.

On arrival, crews reported a first floor flat was on fire and heavily smoke logged. 

Crews wearing Breathing Apparatus entered the flat to extinguish the fire. 

Sadly a man died at the scene.

Following a fire investigation, the cause of the fire has been recorded as accidental and caused by a lit cigarette. 

Station Manager Rick Williams said: “We’re sad to report a man has died and our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones. 

“We believe this fire was caused by a lit cigarette and we would encourage anyone who smokes to make sure cigarettes are properly stubbed out and you avoid smoking while tired, if you’ve been taking strong medication or you’ve had a drink. 

“Smoking is the leading cause of fatal house fires and to help people stay safe at home if they do smoke, we’d encourage you to fill in our online home fire safety check to see how we can help you stay safe if you do smoke at home. 

“You can also fill in the form on behalf of someone else so if you care for a loved one who smokes at home, please take just a few minutes to fill in our online home safety check to see how we can help you stay safe at home.”