A MAN escaped a fire that destroyed his Thurrock flat but suffered burns as he tried to fight the flames before fleeing.

He had fallen asleep with candles alight in the premises and when the first broke out he was alerted by a fire alarm.

Three crews of firefighters were called to the flat in Danbury Crescent, South Ockendon, at 10.43pm on Saturday (30 November).

On arrival, crews reported that the living room of a first floor flat was 100 per cent on fire and smoke logged.

Crews extinguished the fire by 11.28pm. A man in his sixties was left in the care of the Ambulance Service, after suffering burns and smoke inhalation when attempting to extinguish the fire.

Dave Hogan, Watch Manager at Grays Fire Station, said: "I have absolutely no doubt that this man's life was saved because he had a working smoke alarm.

"He made the mistake of falling asleep with candles alight, but fortunately his smoke alarm alerted him to the danger before it was too late.

"We know that, particularly at this time of year, it can be tempting to use candles - but if you are going to, please keep a close eye on them at all times and follow our safety advice."

The flat has been destroyed.

In the wake of the fire Essex Fire and Rescue Service issued the following message:

Follow our candle safety advice

• Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder and are away from materials that may catch fire – like curtains.

• Children should not be left alone with lit candles.

• Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they're put out completely at night.

• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.

• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping.

• Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.

• Don't move candles once they are lit.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on burn time and proper use.

• Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause flaring.

A spokesperson for the fire service added: "We want every property in Essex to be protected by working smoke alarms - so if you don't have them in your home, we'll come and fit them for free!

To arrange your visit, or if you know anyone who would benefit from a visit, please contact us:

Call: 0300 303 0088. Email: [email protected].