A kitchen fire in a flat in Pilots View, Horsted, Chatham, prompted an emergency response from the Kent Fire and Rescue Service on Saturday, 18 November 2023. The incident, which occurred in the mid-afternoon, was efficiently managed, preventing any further escalation.

Incident Timeline and Response: The fire service received the call at 3.24pm and quickly dispatched two fire engines to the scene. Upon arrival, the fire crews, equipped with personal protective equipment and breathing apparatus, tackled the blaze. The fire was extinguished using a hose reel jet, a standard piece of firefighting equipment effective in such scenarios.

Following the extinguishment of the fire, the crew employed a high-pressure ventilation fan to clear the property of smoke, ensuring the safety and habitability of the flat.

Cause of the Fire and Safety Reminder: Initial investigations into the cause of the fire suggest it was linked to an air fryer inadvertently placed on the hob. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of kitchen safety. The Kent Fire and Rescue Service is using this opportunity to emphasize the need to keep kitchen hobs clean and clear of items to reduce the risk of fire.

Community Safety Message: Following the incident, the fire service has reiterated the importance of kitchen safety. They advise residents to be vigilant when using kitchen appliances and to ensure that flammable items are kept away from hobs and other heat sources.

Sharing Information: The service encourages the sharing of this information with the community to raise awareness about fire safety in the home. Residents are urged to share the safety message across various platforms, including Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and via email.