FIRE Crews have highlighted the importance of having working smoke alarms after a fire in Harlow.

A spokesperson said: “We were called to a kitchen fire in The Readings yesterday (Wednesday 3 June) at 3.29pm.

“A crew from Harlow attended and found the end terrace house had started to fill with smoke”.

Watch Manager Ross Daynes said: “When they heard the smoke alarm, the occupant did exactly the right thing; they got out, called 999 and stayed out.

“The incident shows how important it is to have working smoke alarms in your home, they keep you and your family safe by giving you an early warning if there is a fire.

“Make sure you have smoke alarms on every floor of your home and test them regularly.”

The fire was out when crews arrived and they used a fan to clear the smoke. The fire was caused by a power bank charging. Crews left the scene at 4.03pm.

If you or someone you know needs a smoke alarm or advice, call our Home Safety Team on 0300 303 0088 or visit essex-fire.gov.uk/book-home-safety-visit.