Flat fire

Fire crews were called to a block of flats this evening after a resident called 999 to report a fire in a neighbouring flat. 

On arrival, firefighters reported that there was a fire in a ground floor flat that was spreading quickly. 

Watch Manager Scott Ford, Southend Fire Station, said:

"We implemented the building's stay-put policy which meant other residents could stay safely in their homes rather than coming out into the shared hallway which was heavily smoke logged. 

"Our crews worked well to contain the fire to the flat's lounge and hallway and quickly brought it under control before ventilating the building."

The cause of the fire has been recorded as accidental. 

The flat has suffered both fire and smoke damage throughout. 

Do you have working smoke alarms in your home?

Smoke alarms save lives. They can alert your family as well as your neighbours and passers by to a fire in your home if you're not in.

We recommend you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home and that you test them at least once a month.

If you or someone you know doesn’t have working smoke alarms at home, please get in touch with our Service. Visit essex-fire.gov.uk/book or call 0300 303 0088.