Family escape house fire after being alerted by smoke alarms
Firefighters have highlighted the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home after a family of five were alerted to a fire in their bedroom in Wickford.
On arrival crews confirmed that a fire was burning in a third storey bedroom.
Watch Manager Adam Barber said: "Thanks to the working smoke alarms in this home, everyone was alerted as early as possible to the fire. Not only did that mean they could get out, stay out and call the Fire Service out, but it meant we could be there quickly to get the fire under control.
"Please - if you don't have working smoke alarms in your home then get in touch with us and we'll fit them for free. If you do have them, make sure you test them regularly."
The fire was out by 2.55am.
The bedroom has been damaged by the fire, but fortunately the rest of the home escaped major harm. We believe this fire was caused accidentally.
Do you have working smoke alarms in your home?
We want every home in Essex to be protected by smoke alarms - as seen here in this incident, they really can make a difference in making sure you and your family can get out safely in the event of a fire.
We recommend at least one on each level of your home - and we'll come and fit them free of charge!
Book your free home safety visit here: essex-fire.gov.uk/Home_Fire_Safety
