FIREFIGHTERS rushed to tackle flames which broke out in a family’s bedroom caused by a cigarette.

Crews from Colchester and Wivenhoe were called to the fire in John Kent Avenue, Colchester, on Wednesday evening when a mother discovered the fire in the bedroom of her home.

The fire service stated the blaze, which started at about 7.15pm, was caused by a cigarette.

On arrival, firefighters discovered the fire was in a bedroom to the rear of the property and worked swiftly to extinguish it by 7.40pm, before clearing the house of smoke.

Thankfully, the fire was successfully contained to the bedroom and no-one was injured during the incident.

Colchester watch manager Paul Champ has now reminded residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms in their home.

He said “We’re urging smokers to ensure their cigarettes are properly extinguished, especially if smoking indoors. A lit cigarette can cause fires which can spread quickly.

“The crews did a great job to contain the fire and prevent additional damage to the property.

“Fortunately no people were injured, but incidents like these really highlight how important it is to have working smoke alarms in your home.”