FIREFIGHTERS rescued two dogs and four hamsters from a smoke-filled property after neighbours reported hearing smoke alarms going off.
Crews were called to Broomfields, Pitsea, at 1.13pm to reports that alarms were going off and neighbours could smell smoke.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the smoke-filled house and found a pan on fire on the hob.
Adam Barber, watch manager from Basildon Fire Station, said: “We’d like to thank the neighbours for calling us today, their quick call when they heard smoke alarms meant we were able to safely rescue the animals inside and prevent the fire spreading.
“If you hear smoke alarms going off, please do not ignore them. Act quickly to call us so we can get there as quickly as we can, it could save a life.”
Crews extinguished the fire by 1:32pm and ventilated the property.
Firefighters found two dogs and four hamsters in the property and took them all outside for fresh air.
All animals were unharmed.
A spokesman for Essex Fire and Rescue Service said: “This month, we’re encouraging all residents to make sure they have enough working smoke alarms at home.
“We recommend you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. Test them regularly.”
To get a smoke alarm fitted in your home for free visit essex-fire.gov.uk/book-home-safety-visit.
