Fire fighters have urged people to be careful after a man burnt his hand putting out a fire caused by his electric blanket.

Two crews from Thames-side station went to the fire in Sun Road, Swanscombe, at just before 3pm on Saturday (December 10).

The man had switched the blanket on but then put something on top of it on the bed.

It then caused the blanket to overheat.

David Mayhew, Thames-side watch manager, said: "It started a smouldering fire in the mattress. Luckily, the man realised what had happened and attempted to put the small fire out, burning his hand in the process.

"However, the consequences could have been far more serious if the occupant hadn’t discovered the fire so quickly.

"Just three breaths of toxic smoke from a fire can render you unconscious and for this reason, I would advise all residents never to try to tackle a fire themselves but to get out, stay out and call the fire service."

Mr Mayhew urged people using electric blankets to have them tested to make sure they are in good working order before use, to follow the instructions and to never sleep with one switched on unless it has a safety thermostat control designed for sleeping.