AN elderly Thurrock couple were lucky to escape after a fire caused by an electric blanket destroyed the bedroom of their Grays home. They had ignored a smoke alarm, thinking it was on TV.

Four crews of firefighters were alerted to the blaze at a home on Gordon Road, just before 10pm yesterday (Frioday, 29 May) after the home owners realised there was a fire.

Initially the elderly couple had thought the sound of the smoke alarms was on the TV, and it was not until they noticed smoke that they then got out, stayed out and called 999.

On arrival firefighters were met with a large fire in the bedroom which was quickly spreading to the neighbouring property and roof space.

Watch Manager Kevin Hercock, Orsett Fire Station, said: "We could see the smoke from a mile and a half away from the property and as we got closer there were large flames coming from the first floor.

"I can not praise our crews enough - their hard work and skill brought the fire under control and stopped it spreading any further - ultimately saving the neighbouring property from fire damage.

"Following an investigation we found the cause of the fire to be an electric blanket that was about 30 years old.

"I urge anyone using electric items to make sure they are in good working order and regularly tested if possible.

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"It's also so important to check your surroundings if you hear an alarm - don't assume it's coming from the TV or someone else's property."

Crews extinguished the fire within an hour and a half.

The bedroom was completely destroyed and the couple suffered from smoke inhalation and were left in the care of the Ambulance Service.

They were uninjured and have moved to be with family as the home is uninhabitable. A family spokesperson said: "They are safe and OK which is the main thing. We would like to thank the emergency services and particularly all the neighbours who have been tremendous. The response and support has been amazing."