Smoke alarm saves family from serious house fire

A family in Canvey were alerted to a fire in their home thanks to their working smoke alarms.

The fire started at around midnight last night in a ground floor room of the property. Thankfully the house has working smoke alarms that alerted the sleeping family to the fire. The family were able to get out safely and call the fire service.

Crew Manager Paul Conyard from Southend Fire Station said:

"Thanks to the working smoke alarms in this home, everyone was alerted as early as possible to the fire. That meant they could get out, stay out and call the Fire Service out, which meant we could be there quickly to get the fire under control. These smoke alarms undoubtedly saved their lives.

"If you don't have working smoke alarms in your home then please get in touch with us and we'll provide and fit them for free. Simply book a home safety visit on our website: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book 

The fire was caused by an electric heater which was too close to some clothing.

Crew Manager Conyard added:

"Please take care if you're using an electric heater. Keep it well away from anything that could catch fire, plug it into the mains rather than an extension lead and make sure the heater is in good condition."