A dishwasher fire in Crawley has prompted a warning from the fire service not to leave electrical appliances running when nobody is in the house.

Crews were called to Hazelwick Road just before 10.30 Tuesday morning after the sound of a smoke detector alerted a neighbour.

The blaze was quickly under control however the kitchen was badly damaged by fire.  The remainder of the house suffered smoke damage.

The owner had left the premises whilst the dishwasher was still in operation.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service offers the following simple advice:

. Don’t leave washing machines, dishwashers or tumble dryers on overnight or while you are out

. Regularly check for worn or frayed wires

. Keep appliances in clean and good working order

. Ensure you have a smoke detector on each level of your home

. Register your electrical appliances at www.registermyappliance.org.uk