A HOUSE was almost burnt down after an electric blanket caught fire.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service were called to a two-storey house in Bull Lane, Rayleigh, on Saturday, October) 1at 4.19pm.

Crews from Hawkwell and Leigh attended and found a fire in a first floor bedroom.

Firefighters, wearing Breathing Apparatus and using a hose and fan, fully extinguished the fire by 4.43pm.

A man, who had tried to put the fire out himself, was suffering from smoke inhalation. He had been helped out of the house by a member of the public before crews arrived. 

Firefighters gave him first aid and stayed with him until paramedics arrived, at 5.33pm.

Crew Manager Rick Jones said: "We'd like to thank the member of the public who took the occupant to safety. If there's a fire in your home - get out, stay out and call 999 - never try and tackle the fire yourself.

"As the colder weather sets in, this incident also highlights the importance of making sure your electric blanket is in good working order and that you follow our safety advice." 

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