A 'CHEAP' iPhone charger has caused a fire after being left plugged in at a property in Weymouth.

Firefighters from Weymouth said they were alerted to the blaze after the occupants smoke detector alerted neighbours to the ground floor flat in Canberra Crescent.

Two crews responded to the call at 2.41pm to extinguish the fire in the lounge.

The Weymouth branch of Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service want the public to know the cause of the fire after the phone charger was left plugged in to an extension lead.

The fire service has published advice for people purchasing phone chargers and how to be safe: https://www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/safety-at-home/mobile-phone-chargers/

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue service recommends:

  • Not using a charger if you suspect it is faulty or fake
  • Do not use a charger if you have to force it into the wall socket, and don't use it on an extension lead
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how long to charge a product.
  • Always buy from a shop you know and trust, an approved retailer or direct from the manufacturer of the same name as the device.
  • When left plugged in overnight, phone chargers could overheat and cause fires.
  • Particular fire risks are phones left charging on soft furnishings and covering a phone while it’s charging.