Maisonette fire - Shepherd's Bush

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a maisonette fire on Vespan Road, Shepherd's Bush.

A small part of the first floor of a maisonette was damaged by fire. The fire is believed to be caused by the unsafe disposal of a cigarette.

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 1848 and the fire was under control by 1956. Fire crews from Hammersmith, Chiswick, and North Kensington fire stations attended the scene.