FIRE which broke out after an arm chair caught alight has caused some serious damage to a flat in Burnham. 

Essex Fire and Rescue were called to a ground floor property in Glendale Close, Burnham, on Tuesday at 2.12am.

A cigarette which was not put out had caused an arm chair to catch fire. 

Watch Manager Jon Vincent said: "The occupant had put his cigarette in an ash tray next to his armchair when he got up to go to the kitchen.

"Unfortunately, because the ash try was overflowing and cigarette was not properly extinguished, it set the armchair alight.

"Thankfully he noticed the fire, got out safely, along with his dog and called 999."

Crews from Burnham and South Woodham Ferrers attended, got into the flat quickly and extinguished the fire. 

They also gave the occupant oxygen and used a high pressure fan to clear the smoke.

They limited fire damage to the lounge but smoke spread throughout the property, because the internal doors were not closed.

The fire was extinguished by 3.18am and crews remained at the scene until 4.20am.

Mr Vincent said: "The occupant did exactly the right thing by getting out quickly, calling 999 and staying out, allowing our crews to do a really professional job.

"If you’re a smoker or you know someone who is, we’d urge you to follow our advice. 

"Make sure your cigarette is completely extinguished before you dispose of it and empty your ash trays regularly to stop ash building up."