A mum and step-mum of four escaped her family home unharmed after a smoke detector alerted her to a tumble dryer fire.

After realising smoke and flames were coming from the machine, Liz McConnell immediately left her house in Markland Road, Dover, and called 999 for Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS).

Liz said: “My husband and children were all out, so I just got out of the house as quickly as I could while on the phone to the fire service.

“Had the smoke alarm not gone off, I dread to think what could’ve happened, especially as the fire spread and grew so quickly – I could see it growing from outside.”

After receiving Liz’s call at around 8.40am on 11 September, fire control operators quickly mobilised crews, sending in total 13 fire engines, a height vehicle and a bulk water carrier over the course of the seven-hour incident.

Firefighters used main and hose reel jets to extinguish the blaze, while Liz, her family and neighbours, were supported by KFRS’ Volunteer Response Team (VRT).

Liz continued: “The volunteers were amazing and reminded us that the most important thing was we were alive and unhurt.

“When we rebuild the house, we’re having a smoke alarm in every room – they’re too important not to have and without a doubt helped saved my life that day.”

KFRS Group Manager, Dan Noonan, who was the incident commander at the scene, said: “Thankfully, Liz and her family had smoke detectors fitted throughout the house, which were working and within date.

“The sounding alarms, providing an early warning to Liz, undoubtably helped her to get out quickly and safely.

“Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor of your home. Remember to check them weekly and keep a note of their expiry date.

“By keeping your smoke alarms working, you’re helping to keep you and your family safe.”

The incident also highlights the importance of ensuring white appliances, such as tumble dryers and dishwashers, are in good working order, to follow manufacturer guidance and to register electrical items, so you’ll be alerted if there is an issue or the item has been recalled.

Liz’ husband, Ben McConnell, said: “We religiously checked our tumble dryer to make sure lint wasn’t building up, as we know it’s a fire hazard.

“It was also vital that Liz was home and awake while the machine was on, as the outcome could’ve been so much worse if we’d been asleep or out.”