A tumble dryer caught alight overnight and started a house fire.

A smoke alarm alerted residents in their home in Copinger Close, Canterbury, this morning.

Two fire engines attended the house where crews wearing breathing apparatus put out the flames using hose reel jets, before removing the appliance outside.

Firefighters then used high pressured fans to clear the home of smoke.

Both residents were checked over as a precaution after inhaling smoke.

The fire started at 1.41am and had ended by 2.11am.

Following the incident, the service is reminding people that it’s safer not to use appliances such as tumble dryers overnight, or when leaving the house.

There should be a working smoke alarm fitted on each floor of your home which should be tested weekly.