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Firefighters from Basildon and Rayleigh fire stations responded swiftly to a garage fire on London Road in Wickford earlier today, successfully containing the blaze before it could spread to nearby properties.

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) confirmed that crews arrived promptly and used their training and teamwork to confine the fire to the garage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Fire Caused by Electrical Fault

Fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was an electrical fault. Residents are being reminded to check wiring and avoid overloading sockets and extension leads.

Community Fire Safety Campaign Launched

While on scene, firefighters took the opportunity to go door-to-door in the surrounding area, offering fire safety advice. During these checks, several homes were found to lack working smoke alarms.

Crews fitted alarms for free during their visit — part of an ongoing ECFRS initiative to improve household fire safety across Essex.

“You must have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home,” a fire service spokesperson said. “It could save your life.”

Free Smoke Alarm Fitting

Residents across Essex can book free smoke alarm installations by:

Calling 0300 303 0088

Searching for ‘Essex Fire Book’ online

The Essex Fire and Rescue Service continues to encourage all residents to regularly test their alarms and contact them if they need assistance.

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