Picture: JERSEY FIRE AND RESCUE

RESIDENTS of a block of flats escaped unharmed after a smoke alarm alerted them to a fire in their kitchen.

Firefighters were called out at about 7pm on Thursday amid fears that the occupants could still be within the apartment.

On arrival they found thick black smoke pouring out of the residential block as well as filling the internal communal areas.

Picture: JERSEY FIRE AND RESCUE

In a statement, Jersey Fire and Rescue Service said that two firefighters went into the property “in challenging conditions”.

They added: “It was confirmed all persons from within the building were accounted for. Mechanical fans were used to systematically clear smoke from both the affected and surrounding flats.

“On this occasion undoubtedly a working smoke alarm aided in the successful recognition and escape from the property by the occupant.”

Although the cause of the blaze has not been disclosed, the service has urged Islanders not to leave cooking unattended, never leave items too close to the hob and ensure appliances are kept in good working order.

Anyone wanting a home fire-safety visit is being asked to phone Jersey Fire and Rescue on 445967 or email them at firesafety@gov.je.