The fire broke out inside a property in Derry Avenue (credit: Google Maps)
Essex Fire Service were called to a flat in Derry Avenue just after 4am this morning (Monday, 4 September).
Two crews from Grays attended and found a fire in the lounge of a two-storey building.
The couple, who own the property, were able to get out safely and call 999 after their fire alarm alerted them. A dog was rescued by firefighters.
Crew Manager, Scott Gregory said: “The occupant had left an electric bike on charge and either the bike caught fire or the batteries exploded.
“Please don’t leave items charging overnight or unattended, and make sure you use chargers supplied by the manufacturer.
“Thankfully there were working smoke alarms which alerted the couple and they got out safely and called 999.
“Crews quickly extinguished the fire and rescued a dog, which was unharmed.
“Fortunately, fire damage was limited to the lounge, although the entire property was affected by smoke damage.”
Crews fully extinguished the fire by 4.40am.
Safety advice has been issued for those charging electrical items.
In a statement, Essex Fire Service has advised: “not to leave items on charge or plugged in overnight or while you are out of the house.
“Never leave chargers plugged in and turned on when they are not in use.
“Avoid leaving items on charge for long periods.
“Only use the charger supplied by the manufacturer.
“Look out for the CE mark that indicates chargers comply with European Safety standards.”
Tags: Essex, Fire, Flat Fire
