An alert neighbour heard a smoke alarm go off in the empty house next door and called 999.
As a result, firefighters were sent from Hurstpierpoint and Burgess Hill to tackle the kitchen fire in Hassocks.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue said: “Firefighters are urging people to be safe in the kitchen and keep their hobs clear after a recent fire in Burgess Hill.
“On Tuesday 23 April crews from Burgess Hill and Hurstpierpoint were called to a house in Friars Close, Hassocks, after neighbours heard the smoke alarm sounding inside the property and called 999.
“The occupant had gone out leaving the hob switched on causing items left on top of the cooker to catch ablaze.
“On arrival, firefighters extinguished the fire in the kitchen.
“The fire caused extensive damage to the property but luckily no one was hurt.
“After the incident firefighters visited other properties in the area to provide further fire safety advice and ensure residents are living safe and well.”
Watch Manager James Crockett said: “Fires started by cooking account for more than 50 per cent of accidental fires in the home.
“Most of these fires occur when people are distracted and leave things unattended.
“Please be aware of all the potential dangers in your kitchen and stay alert when cooking.
“Always remember to take pans off the heat if you are called away from the cooker and keep items such as tea towels and oven gloves away from the hob.
“Fortunately, the occupant had working smoke alarms which alerted their neighbours to this fire.
“It is important to instal smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them regularly.
“Smoke alarms will alert you to a fire in your home at the earliest opportunity and give you time to safely escape.
“In the event of a fire in your home, always get out, stay out and call 999.”
