Firefighters have issued warnings about chimneys and smoke alarms following two incidents in Deal last night.

A crew was called to a chimney fire in London Road at around 7.30pm and later to a flat fire, thought to be caused by a dishwasher electrical fault, in Lord Warden Avenue.

At the first incident watch manager Malcolm Cowie recorded no damage to the house but said: “During Chimney Fire Safety Week, this is a timely reminder to people to get their chimneys swept before the winter, especially after the dry summer months.”

Firefighters attended the second incident at around 10pm after the occupant who was asleep in bed was raised by his smoke alarm.

Watch manager Cowie said: “The kitchen was damaged but not severely damaged.

“This is living proof of the importance of having smoke detectors. Living in a flat you have a responsibilty to yourself and others.”

He explained how the man had closed his internal doors before going to sleep which had stopped the fire from spreading.

For more information about having your chimney swept or smoke detectors visit the station in London Road.