A fire broke out after a lit cigarette was left in an outbuilding at a house in the early hours.

Firefighters were called to Afghan Road in Broadstairs at 5.30am following reports of the blaze breaking out in the building.

Two fire engines were sent to the scene and crews have now issued a warning about the dangers of smoking late at night in the house.

A spokesman said: "Following the incident, crews are reminding the public to take extra care with smoking materials.

"If you need to lie down, don't light up - you could easily fall asleep and set your bed or sofa on fire.

"You should also never leave lit cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended, and when you put it out, make sure it is fully out."

Neighbours reported being woken by the fire engines in the early hours.

A ventilation fan was used to clear smoke from the property as firefighters used a hose reel jet extinguish the flames and dampen down hot spots.

No casualties were reported and crews left the scene at 5.45am.

For more news on fires in the county, click here.

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