FIREFIGHTERS are highlighting the importance of working smoke alarms after attending a kitchen fire in Tilbury where there were no working smoke alarms.

Crews were called to a house fire in the town yesterday (Tuesday, 27, May) at 4.15pm.

On arrival, firefighters reported the kitchen was full of smoke and the fire was behind the dishwasher.

Crew Manager Keith Westgate said: "Thankfully the residents had been home to notice the fire but it's really concerning to see people without working smoke alarms at home.

"We can't emphasise it enough, please make sure you have working smoke alarms at home. They're your first warning to a fire and can give you time to safely escape your home and call us quickly.

"If you or someone you know doesn't have any working smoke alarms at home, we can fit them for free. Please get in touch with our team here."