Flat fire
Firefighters were called to a ground floor flat fire on Rayleigh Road, Southend last night (Wednesday 23 April).
When crews arrived, they reported the flat on the ground floor flat was full of smoke. The fire had spread from the ground floor to the first floor.
Two people were rescued, one of which was treated for smoke inhalation.
Watch Manager Kevin Colby said: "This incident highlights the importance of having a working smoke alarm on every floor. Fortunately the residents upstairs were notified by the noise and residents on the top floor were notified by their carbon monoxide alarm.
"We can’t emphasise it enough, please make sure you have working smoke alarms at home. They’re your first warning to a fire and can give you time to safely escape your home and call us quickly.
“If you or someone you know doesn’t have any working smoke alarms at home, we can fit them for free. Please get in touch with our team here."
The cause was recorded as accidental.
Do you have working smoke alarms at 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.
