A DOG has been blamed for starting a fire at a Corringham home - prompting a warning from firefighters.

The incident happened at a property in Wheatley Road.

After the alarm was raised and crews arrived, the kitchen was full of smoke. Firefighters used hose reel jets to quickly extinguish the fire and ventilated the property.

Watch Manager Rob Fossett said: "We are urging residents to keep their hobs and ovens completely clear.

"This morning we were called out to a kitchen fire which started after items were left on top of the hob. It had been turned on accidentally by the family's dog.

"If you have an electric hob, it's best to turn it off at the switch when you're not using it. That way it can't be accidentally turned on by any pets.

"Thanks to the swift actions of the crews, the damage was contained to the kitchen."