Firefighters are urging the public to take extra care when disposing of smoking materials after a discarded cigarette caused a fire at a sheltered accommodation property in Southend this morning.
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is reminding all residents, especially those in communal or sheltered housing, to regularly test smoke alarms and dispose of smoking materials safely.
[block_2]
For advice on fire safety in the home, residents are encouraged to visit the official Essex Fire and Rescue website or book a free home safety visit.