FIREFIGHTERS were called to a suspected gas leak at a house in Basildon this morning (Friday, 18 November).

When fire crews arrived at the home at Beambridge Court they found a gas hob had been left on.

Crews took readings which found a high level of carbon monoxide inside the property. Firefighters immeditely ventiliated the property and called for an ambulance for an elderly man living in the house as a precaution.

Group Manager Dan Partridge said: "Carbon monoxide is known as a silent killer. You can't see it, smell it or taste it. Which is why it's so important you have working carbon monoxide alarms in your home if you have a gas boiler, gas appliances or an open fire or log burner.

"Thankfully we were notified by the occupant's carers this morning. It's not known how long the gas had been left on, but it's possible it could have been on all night, it was good that the carers took action when they did."