A family had to evacuate their home after smoke started pouring out of a washing machine.

The incident happened in Albert Road, Chatham at 8.40pm yesterday (Monday).

The female owner called firefighters after she noticed her kitchen had filled up with smoke.

She took her two young children out of the building and waited for crews to arrive.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said an electrical fault had caused the incident.

Firefighters remained at the scene for half an hour ventilating the property and removing the faulty machine.

On Saturday a couple in St Johns Road, Gillingham, also had a lucky escape after their dishwasher caught alight.

Paul Nash, watch manager at Medway Fire Station, urged people to fit smoke alarms and to make sure they work.

Get your smoke alarm free by calling 0800 923 7000.