Bedroom Blaze in Colchester Sparked by Careless Cigarette
Firefighters raced to a blazing bedroom in John Kent Avenue, Colchester last night after a cigarette set the room alight. The call came in at 7:15pm when a mother spotted smoke and flames in her home.
Quick-Thinking Crew Saves the Day
Arriving on the scene, crews found the fire raging at the rear bedroom. They moved fast, dousing the flames by 7:40pm and clearing the house of smoke. Thanks to their swift action, the damage was contained to just one room.
Fire Chief Issues Urgent Warning to Smokers
“We’re urging smokers to ensure their cigarettes are properly extinguished, especially if smoking indoors,” said Paul Champ, Watch Manager at Colchester Fire Station. “A lit cigarette can cause fires which can spread quickly.”
“The crews did a great job containing the fire and preventing further damage. Thankfully, no one was hurt. But this incident highlights why working smoke alarms are absolutely vital.”
Do You Have Working Smoke Alarms? They Could Save Your Life
Smoke alarms don’t just protect you—they alert your family, neighbours, and passers-by to danger, even if you’re not home or asleep. If your alarms aren’t working or you don’t have any, it’s time to act now.
For free advice or to book a home fire safety visit, head to essex-fire.gov.uk/book or call 0300 303 0088.
