With the recent fire at Grenfell tower block in West London there has been a renewed focus on fire safety across the country – and Hitchin is no exception.

The Comet talked to experts at Hitchin Fire Station who shared a few simple tips that could help save you and your family’s life.

Watch Commander Mark ‘Budge’ Burgess shared official fire serve instructions and told us what you should do if the worst happens and a fire breaks out in your house.

The experienced firefighter said: “We instruct people to leave the room where the fire is straight away, then close the door.

“Tell everyone in your home and get them to leave.

“Close the front door of your flat behind you – do not stay behind to put the fire out.

“Call the fire service then wait outside, away from the building.”

Budge explains that the building is designed to contain a fire in the flat where it starts. This means it will usually be safe for you to stay in your own flat if the fire is elsewhere.

However, he adds: “You must leave immediately if smoke or heat affects your home, or if you are told to by the fire service.

“If you are in any doubt, get out.”

Here are other essential facts that may seem obvious but could save your life if you are familiar with them as every second counts during a blaze.

To call the fire service dial 999 or 112.

When the operator answers, give your telephone number and ask for FIRE.

When the fire service reply give the address where the fire is.

Do not end the call until the fire service has repeated the address correctly.

For more on social media follow Hitchin Fire Station’s Twitter account @HitchinFire1.