House fire - New Malden

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a house fire in Byron Avenue, New Malden.

Part of the first floor and most of a loft conversion in a mid-terraced house was damaged by the fire. One man left the property before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was accidental and was caused by 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 that will cause a lot of damage, but also may cost lives.

"There were also no smoke alarms in this property so this is a timely reminder about the importance of having them.

"Homes need multiple smoke alarms or you won't be properly covered. As a minimum, you should have smoke alarms on every floor - in the hallways and the rooms you use the most plus a heat alarm in the kitchen."

The Brigade was called at 1322 and the fire was under control by 1511. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from New Malden, Wimbledon, Sutton and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

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.