Two men escaped a serious flat fire on South Oak Road in Streatham thanks to their smoke alarm.
The fire is believed to have been caused by a candle left unattended which caught alight a bed, mattress and curtains.
The smoke alarm sounded and woke the occupants up who were able to leave the flat before the Brigade arrived. They were treated for smoke inhalation and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
West Norwood Watch Manager Sally Coxon, who was at the scene, said:
“The smoke alarm undoubtedly saved these men. Everyone should have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and the safest option is have those linked together. This will give the earliest warning if there is a fire in your home.
“Candles can be lovely but it is vital that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from curtains or bedding.”
The Brigade offers home fire safety visits to vulnerable people most at risk from fire.
Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from West Norwood and Norbury fire stations attended the incident.
The Brigade was called at 0436 and the fire was under control by 0502.