FIREFIGHTERS were called to a property on Oxford Avenue, Chadwell St Mary, at 4:15pm today (Thursday, 2 July) when occupants discovered a fire in their home.

On arrival, firefighters confirmed there was a fire in the kitchen, caused by a pan which had been left on the hob.

Crews worked to extinguish the fire by 4:38pm, and cleared the property of smoke.

Station Manager, Kevin Smith, at Orsett Fire Station, said: "It's really important to keep cooker surfaces clear of flammable objects. Even after cooking, hobs remain hot for some time and items left on top can easily catch fire.

"Fortunately, the occupants had closed the door between the kitchen and living area which prevented the fire and smoke from spreading through the rest of the property.

"We'd highly recommend keeping the kitchen door closed while cooking and for a while afterwards as it can buy you and your family the time you need to escape safely in the event of a fire."