FIRE crews rushed to a fire caused by an electric heater in Grays.
It happened at a home in Crest Avenue, at about 1.38pm yesterday.
Crews were called to the house after neighbours heard the smoke alarm.
On arrival firefighters reported that there was a small fire in the living room.
Crews worked to extinguish the fire and clear the property of smoke by 2.05pm.
The house has suffered some smoke damage.
Watch Manager Dave Hogan said: "The fire started after a towel was left on an electric heater.
"If you use any type of portable heater in your home, please follow our advice to keep you and your family safe, never leave portable heaters unattended, never leave them on whilst sleeping and ensure that they are positioned well away from anything which could knock them over.
"This incident shows how a smoke alarm provides vital warning that a fire has broken out, and can even alert neighbours when you're out of the house."
For more advice see www.essex-fire.gov.uk
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