ESSEX authorities have issued advice following a devastating tower block fire in London.

Flames destroyed the 24-storey, Grenfell Tower, North Kensington on Wednesday June 14- leaving people trapped on the upper floors of the building and killing 79 people.

Some people were seen throwing children from windows in a bid to save them whilst others jumped from their flats.

As the news broke and unfolded concern began to grow about similar blocks in Chelmsford.

Following the fire Swan Housing Association, which runs the Dimensions flat property in Park Way, Chelmsford issued a statement regarding fire safety.

John Synnuck, Chief Executive, Swan Housing Association offered condolences on behalf of the housing company to those who werre directly affected by the tragic incident in London.

He added: “”In this context I thought it would be helpful to explain what we do in Swan’s current approach to fire safety and highlight that we will keep this under review as we learn more about this incident.

“Swan takes its responsibilities for fire safety very seriously.

“We proactively manage this risk in a number of ways, especially through monitoring fire safety recommendations throughout the entire organisation.

“We regularly ask our Health and Safety Consultants to carry out Fire Risk Assessments on all of our blocks.

“Where these health and safety consultants make recommendations that would improve fire safety, we then take action to implement these measures as soon as possible.

“We also work with the London Fire Brigade, as our primary authority partner, to discuss fire safety requirements.

“In addition, our teams regularly inspect communal areas and ensure that they are kept clear of any items that might hinder people exiting the building in an emergency.

“We also have CCTV in the communal areas of a number of our blocks, which would assist in early identification of a fire.

“We will of course work with the London Fire Brigade and other partners to undertake any recommendations that come from the investigation into the recent fire.”

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has also issued fire safety advice and reassurance to people who are concerned about the safety of high-rise buildings following this morning’s fire at Grenfell Tower in London.

Acting Chief Fire Officer Adam Eckley said: “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this tragic incident as well as our emergency services colleagues who are working together in extremely challenging conditions to save lives and prevent further harm.

“It would be wrong to speculate about the cause of the fire until a full investigation has been carried out.

“However, what we know at this time is that incidents of this type are extremely rare, and it is likely to be one of the worst in our country’s history.

“We have 121 high-rise buildings in Essex, and it is vital that people who live in those buildings know exactly what to do in the event of a fire so that they can protect themselves and their families. We have all the information you need on our website.

“I also want take this opportunity to remind everyone that Essex County Fire and Rescue Service carry out home fire safety visits to anyone living in Essex completely free of charge where will run through escape plans and fit smoke alarms.”

To find out more about the free alarm call 0300 303 0088 or book online: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book