FIREFIGHTERS tackled a blaze at a south Essex property in the early hours of this morning after an electric bike was left charging overnight.

Two crews from Grays were called to a flat in Derry Avenue, South Ockendon at 4.08am, where they found flames in the lounge.

They extinguished the fire by 4.40am.

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."

As a result, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has released safety advice on charging.

These include avoid leaving items on charge for long periods of time and looking out for the “CE” mark, which indicates chargers comply with European Safety standards.

The service added: “The incident highlights the importance of having working smoke alarms: they will alert you to the first sign of fire and give everyone time to get out safely and call 999.

“If you or someone you know needs smoke alarms, arrange a home safety visit by calling: 0300 303 0088, or visiting our Smoke Alarms page.”