Dog killed in house blaze started by clothes left on cooker
A dog was killed in a house blaze after flames ignited from clothes left on top of a hob which was accidentally turned on.
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the home in Doxey Road, Stafford, at 1.22pm on Friday.
Crews from Stafford, Eccleshall, Stone and Rising Brook tackled the blaze in breathing gear and used a single hose-reel jet to extinguish the flames.
No one was in the home but a dog was rescued.
It was given oxygen therapy but passed away shortly afterwards.
Meanwhile the kitchen was left significantly damaged.
An investigation concluded the fire was started accidentally.
Fire investigation officer Brian Griffiths said: "We carried out a fire investigation and found the cooker had been accidentally turned on and clothing, which was left on top of the hob, had set alight and spread to other combustible items nearby.
"This fire has left the kitchen significantly damaged and there is further smoke damage throughout the property.
"This is a reminder to residents not to leave any flammable items on top of the cooker hob even if you think it is switched off.
"We are seeing more and more of this type of fire which sadly could have be avoided.
"Always ensure your electric cooker is off if you are not using it and where possible it is best to turn it off at the main isolation switch to ensure it cannot be accidentally turned on which is easier than people may realise."
