A warning has been issued about the dangers of electrical items after a fire gutted a bedroom having been started by an extension lead.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service shared the warning on social media, also sharing images of the destroyed upstairs bedroom in the home.

They said their crews responded to the fire at the property on Sunday evening.

They confirmed the blaze was started after the electrical appliance was left on the mattress.

The destroyed bedroom in the home Credit: NIFRS East

In the post, NIFRS East said: “Crews this evening attended and swiftly dealt with a fire in an upstairs bedroom. The fire was started by an extension lead plugged in and left on the mattress.

“For your safety, please ensure all electrical items are turned off and unplugged when not in use and extension leads have sufficient air to remain cool and are kept off soft furnishings.”