Flat fire caused by tumble dryer
Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in a second floor flat in Clacton tonight (Friday 30 December)
When crews arrived they reported the second floor flat was engulfed in fire and full of smoke.
Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the flat and extinguished the fire. Thanks to the quick actions of the crews, they managed to stop the fire spreading to the adjoining properties.
The family living in the property were alerted to the fire by their working smoke alarms. When they heard the alarm, they got out, stayed out and called 999.
The fire started in a tumble dryer. The fire has severely damaged the flat to the extent that it is no longer habitable.
Tumble dryer safety advice
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Don’t use tumble dryers at night or while unattended
- Clean the filters after each use to ensure they do not become blocked with fluff
- Items should be removed from the dryer immediately after the cycle and shaken loose to assist cooling
- Ensure that the appliance has its own plug socket. Do not overload extension leads. Ensure that no more than 13 amps are in any one plug socket.
You can also register all of your domestic appliances for FREE at www.registermyappliance.org.uk who will contact you in case of any safety repairs or product recalls on your appliances.
Could you be an on-call firefighter?
Some of the firefighters who attended this incident were on-call firefighters; people who live or work within 5 minutes of the station and are paid to protect their community.
If you live or work within 5 minutes of an on-call fire station, you could be an on-call firefighter too.
Find out more about the role and how to apply at join.essex-fire.gov.uk/on-call
