Last updated: 09/07/2018, 6:20 PM

Leytonstone - flat fire

13/08/2017 19:15
Waltham Forest
House or flat fire
)

Firefighters have issued a warning to smokers after a fire in High Road, Leytonstone on Sunday evening (13 August).

Two fire engines and 10 firefighters and officers were called to the fire in a first floor flat.

The flat was slightly damaged by the blaze.

The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “If you're a smoker it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it.

“If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.”

Safety advice for smokers

• Make sure you have smoke alarms fitted in every room you regularly use in your home including in the hallways.  
• Never smoke in bed. 
• Always ensure you stub out cigarettes properly and dispose of them carefully. 
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach. 
• Never leave lit cigarettes or cigars unattended. 
• Empty ashtrays carefully, ensuring all smoking materials are stubbed out and cold. 
• If you must smoke, do it outdoors.

The Brigade was called at 1915 and the fire was under control at 1937. Fire crews from Leytonstone and Stratford fire stations attended.