A PENSIONER was treated for smoke inhalation when a sofa in her chalet caught fire.

The blaze happened in the early hours of Monday at Sheppey Beach Villas, Manor Way, Leysdown. She managed to get out the building, which did not have a smoke alarm.

Firefighter Dylan Collard said: “We believe it started when she fell asleep on the

sofa while smoking a cigarette.

Smoke logged

“She was overcome with smoke but she managed to safely get out despite the chalet being severely smoke logged. We managed to get her dog safely from a bedroom, as well as her three cats.”

It is believed the fire was started accidentally just after 1am.

Firefighters from Eastchurch were first on the scene. Sheppey firefighters also attended.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service would like to remind the public that they can get

free smoke alarms fitted as part of a home fire safety check. Call 0800 923 7000 for details.