ESSEX Fire Service was called today at 9.58am to Peterswood, Harlow.

Crews from Old Harlow, Ongar and Chelmsford attended and extinguished a fire affecting the ground and first floor of a terraced property.

The whole house was smoke damaged and the conservatory and a first-floor bedroom were badly damaged by fire.

Watch Manager Daniel Hockley said: “The occupants were not at home at the time, but thankfully the property had working smoke alarms and neighbours heard them and called 999. 

“The incident highlights the importance of making sure you’ve got smoke alarms and testing them regularly.”

Crews left the scene at 12.33ppm.

It is believed the fire was caused by a fridge freezer, which was plugged into an extension lead, in the conservatory.

Watch Manager Hockley said: “We would advise residents not to make sure they do not overload extension leads and to check cables, leads and plugs regularly to ensure they are in good condition.”

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