Dishwasher fire prompts urgent reminder from Lancashire firefighters

A kitchen fire in Morecambe caused by a dishwasher has prompted firefighters to issue an urgent reminder about the risks of running appliances overnight or when no one is around.

The incident took place on Saturday 11 May at 9:57pm, when crews from Morecambe and Hornby fire stations were called to a home filled with thick black smoke. The fire had started in the kitchen when the dishwasher caught fire.

Thanks to the quick actions of the occupant, who was home and immediately called 999, firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the kitchen and prevent it from spreading. Two fire engines attended the scene and the crews remained on site for around 70 minutes. Thankfully, there were no injuries or casualties.

Now, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to think carefully about when they use household appliances like dishwashers, tumble dryers, and washing machines. 

Group Manager Liam Wilson, Prevention lead for LFRS said:"We want to remind people that appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and tumble dryers can and do catch fire. Fortunately, in this case, someone was at home, spotted the smoke quickly, and called us right away - which made all the difference. But if no one had been in, the outcome could have been much worse. These types of fires can spread quickly and become devastating. Last year, we attended 253 house fires caused by white goods appliances."

LFRS is encouraging the public to follow three key steps:

• Only use large electrical appliances like dishwashers when you're home and awake

• Avoid running them overnight or while you’re out of the house

• Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every floor of your home

For more fire safety advice, visit www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/electrical-safety