Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a church hall on St Alphonsus Road in Clapham.
A small part of a room on the first floor in the two and three floored building was damaged by fire. One person left the property before the Brigade arrived. He suffered from smoke inhalation and was treated at the scene by London Ambulance Service.
The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a candle left unattended.
A 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 put them out before going to sleep. Candles should be kept well 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.
Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed
Keep out of reach of children and pets
The Brigade was called at 0523 and the fire was under control by 0636. Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from Clapham, Brixton and Battersea fire stations were at the scene.