House fire - no working smoke alarms

Crews were called to a house in Winnock Road, Colchester, last night (Monday) after reports of a house fire. 

On arrival firefighters reported the fire was in an upstairs bedroom and quickly tackled it. 

Following an investigation, officers determined that the fire was caused by a fault in a digital timer that powered the immersion heater. 

Colchester Fire Station's White Watch Manager said:

"There were no smoke alarms in this man's home. As firefighters, we simply can not understand why there are still homes without smoke alarms. 

"This gentleman was so lucky that the fire started when he was awake as he heard the crackling, discovered the fire and was able to get himself and his cat outside to safety. 

"Had this same incident happened at 3am it would have been a very different story. 

"Please, make sure you and your loved ones have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home."

The house has been completely damaged by smoke and the bedroom has been destroyed by the fire.