Candle left unattended on a cupboard is believed to be the cause of a Battersea flat blaze.
Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers were called to the flat fire on Ingrave Street in Battersea this morning.
Half of the third floor flat was damaged by the blaze.
Two men escaped the property before the Brigade arrived. They were both treated for smoke inhalation and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
"Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.”
Top candle safety tips
• Keep candles/tea lights away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire. Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles/tea lights when they are lit.
• Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder
• Make sure the candleholder holds the candle/tea light firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.
The Brigade was called at 0656 and the fire was under control by 0822. Firefighters from Battersea, Clapham, Chelsea and Wandsworth fire stations were at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.