Firefighters have issued a safety reminder after hair straighteners are believed to have started a fire at a flat in Earlham Grove, Forest Gate.
Half of a two-roomed flat on the fourth floor was damaged by the fire. Around 25 people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.
The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was hair straighteners being covered by bedding.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “This incident shows how important it is not to leave items like hair dryers and straighteners plugged in.
“Fortunately, a heat detector operated and raised the alarm and no one was injured.”
The Brigade was called at 1102 and the fire was under control at 1228. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Stratford, Leytonstone, Leyton, East Ham and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.
The Brigade’s top three tips for avoiding a ‘beauty blaze’ are:
1. Hairdryers, hair tongs and straighteners can get extremely hot, so it’s very important to remember to switch them off and leave them to cool on a heat proof surface.
2. Shaving or make up mirrors should be kept away from direct sunlight, along with any canisters, such as deodorant or hairspray.
3. Candles need to be placed on a surface that can’t melt or catch fire, such as a ceramic plate. Always blow them out when you leave the room, and never leave them burning without supervision.