Brigade is warning about fan heaters left too close to clothes and towels following a fire on The Broadway in Hornsey. Part of the first floor flat was damaged by fire.
London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
“This incident is a timely reminder that portable electric heaters can be very dangerous and should never be left unattended or left on while you are asleep. Thankfully the resident was alert by his smoke alarm and neighbours and left the property before the Brigade arrived. He was taken to hospital as a precaution by London Ambulance Service crews.”
The Brigade was called at 0009 and the fire was under control by 0114. Fire crews from Holloway, Hornsey and Kentish Town fire stations were at the scene.
Firefighters tips for using heaters safely
Make sure heaters are well maintained and in good working order.
• Check that your heater isn't on a recall list – there have been many fires in the past year connected to heaters that have been recalled.
• Don't take risks with old heaters – if it's electrical and getting older, get it tested by a qualified electrician or buy a new one.
• Keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes.
• Always sit at least one metre away from a heater as it could set light to your clothes or chair.
• Before attempting to move your heater, turn it off and allow it to cool first.