A family have been left homeless after fire destroyed their home.
It happened in Bruton Avenue, Westcliff today at 12:06pm.
Three crews rushed to the scene.
When crews arrived they reported that there was a well developed fire in a first floor bedroom.
Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire by 12:25pm.
The upstairs of the house has suffered severe fire damage and as a result is no longer habitable.
Station Manager Martyn Hare said: "Following an investigation we believe the fire started after a portable heater was accidentally knocked over as someone left the room.
"The house had no smoke alarms meaning there was a delay in the fire being discovered and calling us out.
"This incident shows that it is vital to have a working smoke alarm on every floor - it will alert you to the first sign of fire so you can get out, stay out and call 999."
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