A kitchen in Tarring has been left fire-damaged after a lively dog accidentally switched on an electric cooker where flammable items had been left on top.
Crews from Worthing Fire Station responded on Tuesday evening (August 2) to a fire at Castle Road — in a property where smoke alarms had been taken down due to decoration work.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is believed to have been started accidentally after a playful dog jumped up and switched the kitchen hob on while the owners were out.
Stored on top of the hub were flammable items.
The dog escaped unharmed.
In warning residents to ensure smoke alarms are always working, Worthing Station Manager Chris Bowles said:
"We understand that there are times, particularly during renovations, when smoke alarms are unable to be attached to the ceiling.
"However, in these instances I would urge people to keep battery-operated alarms on each level of their property to detect a fire situation should one occur.
"Statistics show that you are four times more likely to die in a fire in the home if there is no working smoke alarm, so to say it’s a life-saving piece of equipment is no understatement.
"It is always a good idea to turn electrical items off at the switch when not in use too, especially when leaving the house, to avoid any accidents or electrical fires.”
Firefighters further advised that, when a fire erupts, escape is usually the best thing to do — then immediately call 999.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has also reminded residents of its free on-line fire safety check. Follow this link to reach it.
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