Thursday 19th February 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

Humberside Fire & Rescue have released images showing how rapidly an electrical fire can take hold, after smoke alarms helped residents escape safely during a recent incident.

Crews say the photos highlight the importance of simple safety checks in the home. In this case, working smoke alarms activated early, giving the occupiers vital time to get out before the fire spread.

Fire officers are urging households to take a few minutes to look for warning signs such as frayed cables, damaged plugs or scorch marks around sockets. They also recommend keeping ventilation clear around appliances like fridges, freezers and tumble dryers, switching off electricals overnight, and regularly testing smoke alarms.

Residents are also being reminded not to overload sockets. Advice includes using one plug per socket where possible, checking the amp rating on extension leads, avoiding daisy‑chaining, keeping cables away from heat and water, and always using the correct charger for devices. Registering appliances with the manufacturer can also ensure you receive any safety notices or recall alerts.

Humberside Fire & Rescue say these small steps can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires in the home.