FIREFIGHTERS were called to reports of a house fire in Basildon after neighbours saw smoke coming from the property at around 7.20am yesterday (Saturday, 8 February) and called 999.

When fire crews arrived at the property in Takley Ride they found smoke pouring out of the ground floor kitchen window.

Firefighters immediately got to work putting out the fire, while protecting the neighbouring properties. Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire by 8am.

Watch Manager Darryl Worster said: "The neighbour acted really quickly, calling 999 as soon as they spotted the smoke - a decision that made all the difference. The occupant was incredibly fortunate to have been alerted, especially since they had no working smoke alarms. It's a sobering reminder of how a simple smoke alarm could save your life.

"We discovered the fire was caused by the hob being left on. This is one of the biggest causes of kitchen fires, so we urge all Essex residents to check they have turned their hob off when they finish cooking. It's also a good idea to check your hob and cooking appliances before you go to bed to ensure they are off and safe.

"Once the fire was put out, we visited the surrounding neighbours to check they all had working smoke alarms. We can't stress the point more - smoke alarms really do save lives. I urge anyone living in Essex who doesn't have working smoke alarms, to give us a call or book a visit online - all free of charge. Call 0300 303 0088 or online: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book"