FIREFIGHTERS are reminding residents to keep their ovens clean and always leave the house if a fire breaks out after a kitchen fire in Tilbury.

Crews from Orsett and Grays were called to a house in Tilbury at 10.30pm on Tuesday (10 December) following reports of a fire in the kitchen.

On arrival, firefighters reported a small fire in the oven caused by a build-up of grease, fat and burnt food. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and ventilated the property to remove smoke.

The family called 999 after noticing the fire but remained inside the house.

Watch Manager Smith from Orsett Fire Station said: "It's vital that if a fire starts in your home, no matter how small it may seem, you get out, stay out, and call 999. Your safety is the most important thing and smoke from a fire can spread quickly.

"This time of year, with all the extra cooking during the festive period, it's also important to keep ovens, hobs and other kitchen appliances clean and well-maintained to reduce the risk of fire.