Firefighters put out blaze sparked by electrics in a washing machine. 

Crews from Colchester and Wivenhoe were called to De Vere Lane in Wivenhoe yesterday morning. 

The fire started after the occupant turned on the washing machine and it started to smoke. 

When fire crews arrived they reported that the fire was in the kitchen and appeared to be within a under-counter cupboard next to the washing machine.

The cause of the fire was found to be accidental, due to an electrical cable which had been unsafely amended.

Crew Manager Andy Edwards, Colchester Fire Station, said: "Incidents like this show how important it is to always get an approved electrican to do any electrical work in your home.

"Sometime these little jobs look like an easy job, but all electrics pose a fire risk and unless you are a qualified electrician you shouldn't attempt to have a go yourself. 

"Due to the unsafe connection this plug overheated and it was only by luck that it was caught early enough and didn't spread into a high fire."

Essex Fire Service want every home in Essex to be provided with the excellent protection that smoke alarms offer.

Smoke alarms alert give you early warning of a fire which will give you and your family a chance to escape your home safely.

They will provide and fit smoke alarms completely free of charge.

Call 0300 303 0088 or visit www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book.