Firefighters used breathing apparatus to enter a home to tackle a fire which had broken out in a tumble dryer.

Crews were called out to a home in Ottway Street, Chatham, after the fire broke out at midnight on Sunday.

After putting out the flames the crew ventilated the property and removed the appliance outside.

Steve Demetriou, director of operations said: “Fires can break out in electrical appliances and power outlets with very little warning.

“Never operate white goods such as washing machines, tumble dryers or dishwashers when out of the property or overnight.

“Clean tumble dryer filters regularly and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

“Switch electrical appliances off when not in use and most importantly fit and test working smoke alarms in your home, they provide early warning of fire.”

The crews were able to leave the home shortly after 12.30am.

Earlier in the evening firefighters ventilated a home in Montgomery Avenue, in the town after cooking fumes activated the smoke alarms in a flat there.

The incident happened shortly after 6pm and crews were able to leave the home by 6.30pm.